Reviewed by Methul Dissanayake and Thusath Dissanayake
The fourth rendition of Neo Kosmo organized by the Foundation of Astronomical Studies and Exploration (FASE), who were at the forefront of the Sri Lankan astronomical scene, served to be the most combative and most anticipated quiz of the year. The competition that took place from 30th-31st December comprised of two stages, a selection round and the final scavenger hunt, which were both held online. The first round was a standard quiz paper divided into the five main subjects. The team had little difficulty in acing this one, as they proceeded on to the big stage.
Contrary to prior quizzes, Neo Kosmo finals were a virtual scavenger hunt ,that integrated a comprehensive storyline which the contestants were constantly following, with interconnected tasks testing different areas of their knowledge. The crew of five were met with 8 such tasks based on basic astronomical trivia, coupled with complex equations, a touch of history and a display of the team’s presentation abilities. After a night of intense competition, the team had high hopes of a positive result the following day. Promising as expected, Team TCK emerged champions against the formidable Team of Nalanda College Colombo, by a 100 point margin.
With this jubilant achievement, ended the collective quizzing days and an illustrious year for the society as a whole.
Team members
Master Methul Dissanayake ( Captain, cosmology )
Master Amoda Kossalawatte ( Rocketry )
Master Thusath Dissanayake ( General Astronomy)
Master Himaru Abeygunarathne ( Astrophysics)
Master Thakshala Medagama ( Observational Astronomy)