International Dark Sky Week: Head To Mukteshwar For Spectacular Celestial Events
As the world celebrates the International Dark Sky Week, Mukteshwar is all set to host a series of astronomy-related events this April
The picturesque town of Mukteshwar is gearing up to welcome stargazers and astronomy enthusiasts from across the country. As the world celebrates the International Dark Sky Week, Mukteshwar is all set to host a series of astronomy-related events.
Starscapes, India’s leading astro tourism company and a member of the International Dark Sky Advocate Network, is hosting a series of astronomy-related activities as a part of the ‘International Dark Sky Week’. Starscapes will host the Planetary Parade and the ‘Messier Marathon’ from 15th April to 30th April at their observatory in Mukteshwar.
What is International Dark Sky Week?
Endorsed by International Dark-Sky Association, a non-profit that works to preserve and protect the night sky, International Dark Sky Week is celebrated across the world during the New Moon week in April, which this year occurs from April 22nd to April 30th. The event, which began in 2003, aims to raise awareness about the night sky, the ecosystem that flourishes in the dark on Earth, and the universe that exists beyond our planet. Astronomy enthusiasts globally commemorate this week with activities such as switching off the light to minimise light pollution, stargazing sessions and astrophotography workshops.
Starscapes has been actively working towards promoting Dark Sky Locations in India to boost interest in astro-tourism. They have recently partnered with the Uttarakhand Tourism Board to develop Benital as India’s first astro village. In addition to this, Starscapes is working closely with locals to raise awareness about light pollution and its effects on the environment. Furthermore, they have been advocating for the implementation of dark sky regulations across India.
Events at Starscapes observatories for International Dark Sky Week celebrations:
The Messier Marathon
The Messier Marathon offers an exclusive opportunity to learn about Charles Messier’s contributions to cataloguing the night sky. Attendees will be able to observe some of the galaxies, nebulas, and star clusters catalogued by Messier.
Planetary Parade
Watch the planets as they line up in the eastern sky heralding the rising of the sun, early in the morning. Participants will be able to look at the phases of Venus, the clouds, the satellites of Jupiter, and the rings of Saturn.
