The recent sighting of a rare auroral arc in Hanle after a severe solar storm has sparked a newfound interest in astro tourism across India. Ramashish Ray, founder of Starscapes, a company dedicated to providing astronomical experiences, notes that the trend of immersive sky watching experiences is on the rise, attracting adventure seekers looking for unique vacation experiences.
In response to this growing interest, a campaign called Nakshatra Sabha is set to take place from May 31 to June 2 at George Everest in Mussoorie. The event will bring together academicians, scientists, astro photographers, and stargazers from different cities to promote astro tourism in the country. Additionally, various small-duration programs and itineraries are being planned to cater to the expanding community of stargazers in India.
The surge in interest in stargazing post-pandemic has been attributed to events like ISRO’s Chandrayaan mission, which have made space exploration a trendy topic. Starscapes has observed a shift in their clientele, with a broader range of people now seeking out astronomy experiences.
From astronomy sessions in Ladakh to astro parties with live music and bonfires, the options for stargazing enthusiasts are expanding. Astroport, which has established stargazing and space experience centers at selected hotels and resorts across India, offers a variety of activities such as orientation to the night sky, constellation watching, and rocketry workshops.
With astro tourism gaining popularity, more people are embracing the wonders of the night sky and exploring the fascinating world of astronomy. Whether it’s building telescopes, launching rockets, or delving into the history of timekeeping, there are endless opportunities for sky watchers to immerse themselves in the beauty of the cosmos.