Engaging Stargazing and Space Activities for All Ages

by astroport
July 05, 2024

Welcome fellow astronomers! 

Humans have always been fascinated by space, and today, that curiosity is stronger than ever. From ancient times to now, we have been trying to understand the universe better. Let me introduce you to Astroport, India’s first destination dedicated to astronomy and space experiences. 

Astroport’s sites are situated away in peaceful natural surroundings, far away from city lights, making it perfect for all kinds of travellers. Whether you’re young or just young at heart, Astroport promises an amazing journey into space for all ages. 

Astroport is more than just a place to visit — it’s a place to dive into exciting stargazing programs and activities led by experts. You can learn how to set up telescopes, read star maps, and discover so much more about the universe. It is also a place where students, communities, and anyone curious about the stars and space can learn and explore. Astroport blends education with adventure to help everyone understand the wonders above us. 

Whether you are seeking knowledge or just want to marvel at the stars, Astroport is here to share the beauty and mystery of space with you. 

Astroport is the leading brand in experiential tourism and Astrotourism which establishes stargazing and space experience sites at only selected hotels and resorts in India. 

Stargazing and Space Experience Activities for all Ages

Discover the wonders of the universe under the expert guidance of Astroport’s knowledgeable astronomers. Whether you’re unfamiliar with telescopes, constellation names, star mythology, or how to find celestial objects, there is no need to worry. At Astroport, skilled educators lead engaging sessions that cater to all levels of interest and experience. 

During the Aditya (morning) sessions and Chandra (night) sessions, participants are immersed in activities designed to expand their understanding of the cosmos. These workshops not only provide opportunities to observe celestial phenomena but also encourage curiosity and intellectual growth, making them perfect for both individuals and families. 

Aditya session 

Viewing the Sun Safely: In this session participants will learn about the reasons why scientists study Sun. This session informs about how to safely observe the Sun and realize the importance of using safe methods for solar observation. They will learn about different solar features. They will also use ball projector, pinhole projector and solar view goggles to have a safe look at the Sun. 

Fun with hydro rocketry: In this specific session participants launch their own bottle rockets using the hydro rocket launcher. They compete in teams to land the rockets in the target destination using their knowledge of launch angle, pressure, and range. 

Air rocketry challenge: Participants launch paper rockets using the launcher. They compete in teams to land the rockets in the target destination.

Strolling through the solar system: The solar system is unimaginably vast. This session provides an opportunity to visualize this vastness. In this session participants develop an understanding of the relative sizes (through the use of eatables) and distances (by measuring it in the number of steps) between planets of the solar system and by scaling down the distance & size of every object of the solar system. Learners are amazed by the experience of the vastness of the solar system as they actually walk through the solar system. 

DIY- Your own solar watch: have you ever thought about how people knew the time before watches were invented? In ancient times, they built observatories like Jantar Mantar to understand the sky and time. These places show us how smart people were back then. But have you ever wondered why it was so important for them to build these places accurately? It’s because they needed to know the time precisely without any clocks! This, session teaches about sundials and why they were crucial for keeping time. We’ll also learn how to make our own Sun Watches using horizontal sundials and see how they actually work.  

Colony on the Moon: People are curious about living in space, much like how explorers were once drawn to new lands and the open sea. The idea of living on the Moon has been in science fiction for a long time, but now it’s becoming more real with human efforts. A colony on the Moon could give us access to resources and energy that we can’t easily get on Earth. It could also be a starting point for exploring even more of our galaxy and beyond. In this session, participants will learn about the challenges of living on the Moon and how scientists are working to solve them. They’ll see an interesting presentation about these challenges and then they’ll have the chance to design and create a model of a lunar settlement. This settlement could be where people might live in the next fifty years. 

Chandra Session 

Deep Space Voyage: This program conducted daily in the evening at Astroports guests. The program serves as a useful introduction to the world of Astronomy for newcomers. ‘Deep Space Voyage’ will take the visitors that are led by an astronomy educator into the discovery of constellations, Planets, Deep Sky Objects as well as introduce them to telescope as one of the most important tools used by astronomers.  

Trip to Luna: ‘Trip to Luna’ will take the visitors that are led by an astronomy educator into the discovery of our nearest neighbour in space – Moon as well as planets. In ‘Trip to Luna’ Participants will marvel at the captivating sight of the Moon through a telescope and binoculars and engage in a variety of activities such as making craters, on an artificial lunar surface, and clicking pictures of the Moon to better understand our nearest celestial neighbour. 

Celestial Bonanza: ‘Celestial Bonanza’ is one of the astronomy evening observation sessions having the motto – Enrich, Engage, Educate. In this session Moon, Planets, Deep Sky Objects and Constellations. Observe all of the above this evening. 

Sky and Maps: Maps in a sense symbolize exploration. In this session participants explore the night sky with one of the most versatile maps of the sky – a Planisphere while finding the pole star with the help of Ursa Major or Cassiopeia Constellation Watch (Using Planisphere) 

Cosmic Tools: The program serves as a useful introduction to the world of Astronomy for newcomers. ‘Cosmic Tools’ will take the visitors that are led by an astronomy educator into the discovery of constellations, Planets and Deep Sky Objects. You will Explore the night sky with one of the best night sky simulation tool available “Stellarium” – A planetarium software.  

Constellation Hunt: “Constellation Hunt” will focus on the learning about many constellations in the sky; learn about their origins, their stories. Our educator will show and challenge you to hunt not just the most prominent constellations but even the faint ones because sometimes, it is hunting the faint constellation where the most fun lies. 

Moon Madness: “Moon Madness” will focus on the learning about the brightest stars in the sky, learn about their origins, their stories. This session also explores about moon and its features. We will learn about the telescopes as well as conduct a challenge to explore the features on the moon. 

Whether you’re a seasoned stargazer or just starting your astronomical adventures, Astroport offers an array of activities that is for all ages and levels of curiosity. From safe solar observations to launching rockets, from walking through the solar system to imagining life on the Moon, each session promises to spark wonder and deepen your understanding of our celestial surroundings. 

Imagine marvelling at the Moon through a telescope, or learning about constellations that have fascinated cultures for centuries. Astroport not only educates but also inspires, making astronomy accessible and engaging for everyone. Whether you’re visiting with family, friends, or attending a school trip, there’s something here to ignite the astronomer in you. 

So, here’s wishing you clear skies and unforgettable experiences as you embark on your own cosmic journey. May your curiosity continue to reach for the stars! Until next time, may your nights be filled with celestial wonders. Clear skies and farewell!