Under the International Year of Astronomy 2009 programs, the Sri Lanka Astronomical Association organized a science fiction short story competition in memory of late Sir Arthur C Clarke.


Medium
Sinhala and English

Categories
Junior – Grades 8 - 10
Senior – Grades 11 – 13

Background and Objective
Science fiction differs from fantasy in that, within the context of the story, its imaginary elements are largely possible within scientifically established or scientifically postulated laws of nature (though some elements in a story might still be pure imaginative speculation). Exploring the consequences of such differences is the traditional purpose of science fiction, making it a "literature of ideas". Science fiction is largely based on writing entertainingly and rationally about alternate possibilities in settings that are contrary to known reality.
These may include:
A setting in the future, in alternative time lines, or in a historical past that contradicts known facts of history or the archeological record.
A setting in outer space, on other worlds, or involving aliens.

Stories that involve technology or scientific principles that contradict known laws of nature.
Stories that involve discovery or application of new scientific principles, such as time travel or psionics, or new technology, such as nanotechnology, faster-than-light travel or robots, or of new and different political or social systems.

Review of Entries
Entries should be forwarded with an application form as shown below to reach the Secretary by 28th February, 2009.
Selected wining entries will be awarded the following cash prizes and certificates and selected stories will appear on Newspapers.

Prizes and distribution
1st place 3000/=
2nd place 2000/=
3rd place 1000/=
All prize money is given as gift certificates.
Selected stories will be published in newspapers.

Rules and regulation
Words
Junior – not exceeding 1000 words
Senior – 1200 – 1500


All entries must be signed from the school principal.
Must follow the description of Science Fiction
The entries will not be return.
Only one entry per person
Should be originals


Send in your entries to:
Thilina Heenatigala
No:27,
Stalmaj H.S.,
Athurugiriya.
10150

Please mark as
“SF Competition 2009” in the left top corner of your envelop.


Download the application here
and poster here


Press releases:
SLAA0901: Sir Arthur C Clarke Memorial Science Fiction Short Story Competition 2009