Astronomy enthusiasts from across India participate in the fourth HDSR Star Party

Expert astrophotographers and amateur astronomers from across India participated in the fourth edition of the Hanle Dark Sky Reserve (HDSR) Star Party from 7–12 September 2026, held at the Indian Astronomical Observatory in Hanle, Ladakh. Jointly organized by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA), Department of Wildlife Protection of UT Ladakh, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC), and the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR), the event brought together around 40 amateur astronomers to utilize the dark skies. An Open Night on 10 September drew over 1,200 visitors, and training sessions were conducted for local HDSR Astronomy Ambassadors. Notified in December 2022, the HDSR initiative aims to reduce light pollution for scientific research and promote astro-tourism for local socio-economic development.