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Picture Courtesy: The Hindu

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With the motto “come for the mountains, stay for the stars”, the Hanle Dark Sky Reserve in Ladakh is a model for preserving Himalayan skies while boosting the local economy. It is India’s first dark sky reserve, offering pristine conditions for astronomy and astro-tourism.

What is dark sky reserve?

A Dark Sky Reserve is a designated area recognized for its exceptionally clear night skies that are protected from light pollution. These areas allow people to observe stars, planets, and other celestial phenomena in their natural clarity.

Key Features of Dark Sky Reserves:

• Minimal Light Pollution – Streetlights and buildings use carefully designed lighting to reduce glare and sky brightness.
• Clear Atmospheric Conditions – Often located in remote or high-altitude areas with low humidity, dust, and air pollution.
• Scientific and Educational Use – Supports astronomy research, stargazing, and educational programs.
• Tourism and Local Benefits – Encourages astro-tourism, boosting local economies while promoting sustainable practices.
• Community Involvement – Local residents participate in maintaining the dark skies and guiding visitors.

Establishment of the Dark Sky Reserve

The Hanle Dark Sky Reserve is managed under a memorandum of understanding between:

• The Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA), Bengaluru
• The Union Territory of Ladakh
• Ladakh Hill Development Council, Leh

It is located within the Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary and surrounds the Indian Astronomical Observatory, which hosts:

• Himalayan Chandra Telescope
• GROWTH India Telescope (IIT Bombay collaboration)
• High Altitude Gamma-Ray Telescope Array (TIFR)
• Major Atmospheric Cherenkov Experiment (BARC)

Hanle Star Party

The Hanle Dark Sky Reserve Star Party is an annual event that brings together amateur astronomers and astrophotographers to experience some of the clearest night skies in the world. Held in Hanle, Ladakh, India, these gathering offers participants a unique opportunity to observe and photograph celestial phenomena in a pristine environment. This event organized by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) in collaboration with the Union Territory of Ladakh and the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC) Leh.

 Picture Courtesy: Team-BHP

Impact on Local Life:

• Astro-Tourism Development: The Hanle Dark Sky Reserve has become a major attraction for stargazers, drawing around 10,000 visitors in 2024. This influx has boosted the local economy through homestays and guided stargazing experiences, providing new income opportunities for residents. 

• Employment and Community Empowerment: A group of 24 local residents, predominantly women (around 70%), have been trained as “Astro-Ambassadors.” They assist visitors, offer stargazing guidance, and contribute to part-time employment while enhancing their skills in tourism and astronomy. 

• Cultural and Educational Engagement: Astronomy programs at Hanle incorporate Ladakhi folklore, connecting scientific learning with local culture. Additionally, schools participate in outreach sessions during the off-season, giving children a unique introduction to astronomy and environmental awareness. 

• Sustainable Practices for Dark Sky Preservation: To maintain the pristine night skies, the reserve has implemented measures such as using warm-toned lighting and installing blackout curtains. These efforts help minimize light pollution while promoting eco-friendly tourism practices. 

Way Forward:

• Expand Astro-Tourism Infrastructure: Plans for a Mini Planetarium and Astro-Globe to attract more visitors and support year-round tourism 

• Enhance Community Engagement: Train more Astronomy Ambassadors to create jobs, especially for women and youth, and promote cultural heritage 

• Strengthen Conservation Measures: Continue light pollution management and sustainable practices to maintain Bortle-1 sky quality 

• Promote Scientific Research: Encourage collaborations between IIA, IITs, and research institutions to leverage Hanle’s pristine skies for astrophysical studies.
• Increase Visitor Awareness: Conduct workshops and star parties to educate tourists and locals about astronomy and environmental preservation. 

Source: The Hindu