The Ministry of Science and Technology has highlighted the successful completion of the fourth Hanle Dark Sky Reserve Star Party, held from 7 to 12 September 2026 at the Indian Astronomical Observatory in Hanle, Ladakh. Around 40 amateur astronomers and expert astrophotographers from twelve Indian states and Union territories gathered to observe the night sky at this designated dark sky location. The event was jointly organised by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics, the Department of Wildlife Protection of Ladakh, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, and the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research.
The event and its reach
Participants brought advanced equipment to make full use of four nights of observation under Hanle’s exceptionally clear skies. They travelled from Chandigarh, Goa, Gujarat, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Karnataka, Maharashtra, New Delhi, Madhya Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh.
On 10 September, an open night for local communities and tourists drew more than 1,200 visitors. Professional participants and 25 trained local astronomy ambassadors helped guests view the night sky through specially set up telescopes and answered questions about astronomy and night sky observation.
The trained ambassadors, local villagers equipped with government-supplied telescopes over the past three years, also received additional training during the Star Party. Expert astrophotographers mentored them on practical techniques for night sky watching and astrophotography.
Senior officials from regional organisations were briefed on controlling light pollution in the area. The Hanle Dark Sky Reserve was formally notified by the Ladakh government in December 2022 and operates as both a research facility and a socio-economic development initiative through astro-tourism.
What this means for you
If you are an amateur astronomer or astrophotography enthusiast in India, this annual event offers a rare opportunity to observe under some of the country’s darkest skies with a community of experienced practitioners. For residents and business owners near Hanle, the Dark Sky Reserve generates tourism income while creating local employment through trained astronomy guides. The initiative also supports ongoing research at the Indian Astronomical Observatory, which operates major telescopes including the Himalayan Chandra Telescope and hosts additional large telescopes under development.