Date: Mar 17, 2024
Venue: Velhe
Organizing Body: antarikshvit17@gmail.com
On March 17, 2024, the Antariksh Club arranged an enthralling Private Star Party in the scenic surroundings close to Velhe Village, Maharashtra. Members were treated to an interactive tour of the realm against the breathtaking background of Rajgad Fort and Torna Fort. Newtonian telescopes, which included versions with diameters ranging from 4 in, 6 in, 8 in, and 10 inches and various eyepieces with lenses of 9mm, 12.5mm, 20mm, and 25mm, were the focal point of the event. With these equipment, people may observe the details of the moon and beyond with an unmatched level of precision. Under the guidance of seasoned astronomers Jameer Sir and Pranav Sir, a series of informative lectures covering constellations, planetary orbits, and cultural meanings attached to celestial bodies took place during the evening. These lectures also gave a unique overview of stars, explaining their crucial significance in the calendars and civilizations of the past. Using directional clues from well-known constellations like Cassiopeia and Ursa Major, attendees participated in hands-on constellation mapping exercises as the night went on. The experience was further enhanced with deep sky object observation exercises, which required participants to recognize and examine 25 celestial objects, such as nebulae, clusters, and Messier objects. The goal of this all-encompassing strategy was to help club members develop a greater awareness and comprehension of the universe.
Event Objectives:
1. To facilitate learning and exploration of celestial objects and phenomena.
2. To enhance participants' understanding of constellations and their cultural significance.
3. To provide hands-on experience in telescope observation and deep sky object identification.
4. To foster a sense of community and shared passion for astronomy among club members.
Event Highlights:
1. Educational Sessions: Jameer Sir and Pranav Sir, two experienced facilitators, led the educational workshops held at the Private Star Party. The goal of these seminars was to teach attendees a thorough grasp of astronomical phenomena. The structures of constellations and a first introduction to stars were among the topics covered. Participants investigated the historical and cultural significance of stars, including their involvement in calendars, cultural beliefs, and ancient civilizations. Participants left these workshops with the fundamental knowledge they needed to improve their participation in the event's practical observation activities.
2. Constellation Mapping: Participants in the constellation mapping session had the chance to learn by doing. Using key constellations like Orion, Taurus, Auriga, Canis Major, and Gemini as examples, facilitators led participants through the constellations' distinguishing characteristics and forms. Furthermore, talks on the directional signals offered by constellations such as Ursa Major and Cassiopeia helped participants comprehend celestial navigation. The purpose of this program was to increase participants' practical constellation identification and mapping abilities as well as familiarize them with the major constellations.
3. Deep Sky Object Observation: During the event's deep sky object observation portion, participants had to locate and keep an eye on 25 deep sky objects all night long. Nebulae, clusters, and Messier objects were among the items seen, exposing participants to a wide variety of astronomical phenomena. Participants, for example, got to see the Ring Nebula and the Heracles Cluster and learned about its distinct features and celestial significance. The purpose of this phase was to expose participants to a range of astronomical objects that extend beyond constellations and to provide them practical experience in using telescopes for observation.
4. Galactic Exposure: At 4:25 AM, the Private Star Party provided a captivating glimpse of the Milky Way despite geographical challenges. Participants had the chance to experience cosmic exposure and take in the splendor and majesty of our galaxy thanks to this amazing sight. Members took turns taking pictures of the Milky Way, which helped them learn more about celestial photography and galactic structure. This portion attempted to emphasize principles of celestial photography and galactic structure while giving participants an up-close look at the Milky Way.
5. Discussions and Mythology: Participants participated in talks about constellation mythology and cultural beliefs related to celestial bodies, in addition to actual observation exercises. The complex fabric of cultural tales woven around constellations like Virgo, Scorpius, and Centauri was explored as facilitators led conversations on mythical links with these celestial groupings. These talks attempted to promote critical thinking and interdisciplinary astronomy inquiry by placing astronomical topics within cultural and historical frameworks.
The Antariksh Club Private Star Party was a huge success, accomplishing its goals of fostering community, exploration, and education. After the program, attendees felt more connected to the universe, had improved their understanding of astronomy, and had acquired useful observational skills. The occasion demonstrated the club's dedication to encouraging its members' scientific curiosity and enthusiasm for discovery. It gives us great pleasure to plan such enriching events in the future.
