Context:
The Hanle Dark Sky Reserve (HDSR) in Ladakh recently hosted its third annual Star Party, marking a significant milestone in India's astro-tourism and scientific outreach initiatives. Held from September 18 to 23, 2025, this event attracted amateur astronomers and astrophotographers from across the country, offering them a unique opportunity to observe and photograph celestial phenomena in one of the darkest places on Earth.
About 2025 Star Party:
The third edition of the HDSR Star Party was organized by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA), the Department of Wildlife Protection of UT Ladakh, and the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC). The event attracted over 45 participants from various parts of India, including Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Mandi, Ahmedabad, Lakshadweep, and Mumbai.
About Dark Sky Reserve:
According to IDA’s International Dark Sky Reserve Program Guidelines an International Dark Sky Reserve (IDSR) is a large public or private land area (often 700 km² or more) recognized for having exceptionally dark night skies and for taking active steps to protect that darkness for scientific, educational, cultural, ecological, and public enjoyment purposes.
The Reserve is structured such that:
· A core zone: the darkest part, minimally affected by light pollution, and maintained so that celestial features (like the Milky Way) are visible under normal conditions.
· A peripheral / buffer zone: surrounds the core, and helps shield it from external light pollution threats, by requiring compatible lighting practices and policies in these surrounding areas.
About Hanle Dark Sky Reserve (HDSR):
Established in December 2022, the Hanle Dark Sky Reserve is India's first International Dark Sky Reserve. Located at an altitude of 4,500 meters in the Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary, it encompasses approximately 1,073 square kilometers of pristine land. The reserve is centered around the Indian Astronomical Observatory (IAO), managed by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) under the Department of Science and Technology (DST).
HDSR serves a dual purpose:
1. Curtailing Light Pollution: Implementing measures to reduce artificial light, preserving the natural night sky for astronomical research and ecological balance.
2. Promoting Astro-Tourism: Leveraging the dark skies to boost local livelihoods through eco-friendly tourism.
The reserve boasts Bortle-1 skies—the darkest category—making it an ideal location for stargazing and astrophotography.
Conclusion:
The third annual Star Party at Hanle Dark Sky Reserve exemplifies the successful integration of scientific research, environmental conservation, and community development. As India's first International Dark Sky Reserve, HDSR not only preserves the natural night sky but also illuminates a path toward sustainable and inclusive growth through astro-tourism.
