In a unique occurrence, the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) organized an official Star Party in the Hanle Dark Sky Reserve situated in eastern Ladakh.
Approximately 30 amateur astronomers gathered at Hanle, each equipped with telescopes and cameras, to capture the unadulterated night sky, unaffected by light pollution.
Hanle, home to the Indian Astronomical Observatory under IIA, is renowned for its exceptionally clear and dark skies as well as its arid climate, rendering it a perfect setting for astronomical investigations and astrophotography. The Hanle Dark Sky Reserve (HDSR), spanning around 1,073 square kilometres, was recently designated by the Union Territory of Ladakh to regulate artificial light pollution and safeguard the region's natural dark skies.
Dorje Angchuk, the Engineer-in-charge of the Observatory, emphasized the potential socio-economic advantages of establishing the Hanle Dark Sky Reserve (HDSR) as a tourist destination. He stated, "The Reserve seeks to draw in astronomy enthusiasts, thus contributing to the economic growth of the nearby villages."
Attendees hailing from various regions across India, including Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Mandi, Ahmedabad, Lakshadweep, and Mumbai, brought their personal equipment to carry out individual astrophotography projects.
The event presented a distinctive opportunity for participants to observe and capture celestial occurrences such as the False Dawn or the Zodiacal Light, which are visible only in extremely dark locations like Hanle.
Despite the challenges posed by the high altitude, cold weather, and limited oxygen, the participants were enthusiastic about their experiences, as reported by IIA. Sudhash Natarajan, representing the Bangalore Astronomical Society, expressed his delight at the chance to observe faint galaxies at HDSR, while Atish Aman, another amateur astronomer, marvelled at witnessing the phenomenon of Venus casting a shadow.
© Copyright 2023. All Rights Reserved Powered by Vygr Media.
