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News18
7 days ago
- Science
- News18
Eyeing The Stars: How India Is Turning Ladakh's Harsh Terrain Into A Science Launch-Pad
From analog space mission to biggest solar telescope, and glimpses of northern lights, Ladakh is turning into a year-round field lab for India's astronomers, and space scientists. Last May, Indian astronomers captured a stunning, rare display of northern lights dancing across Ladakh's night skies. This was triggered by the most intense solar storm in the last 20 years. A year later, using observations from the Indian Astronomical Observatory (IAO) in Hanle – alongside data from NASA and ESA – they have successfully traced the paths of these powerful solar eruptions, and determined their temperatures and magnetic properties. This is just one of the many science breakthroughs emerging from Ladakh. With its high altitude and one of the darkest skies in India, the region has long provided vital data for Indian astronomers. The 22-km area around Hanle hosts India's first Dark Sky Reserve. Now this cold, barren and Mars-like frontier has become India's most crucial site for astronomical research. From the country's first analog space mission to its largest solar telescope, Ladakh is fast emerging as the launch-pad for India's big scientific dreams. Scientists from the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA), Bengaluru, have long aimed to build the National Large Solar Telescope in Ladakh – a 2-metre ground-based telescope, set at 4,200 metres above the sea level, designed to observe the Sun in optical and near-infrared light like never before. The project has been years in the making, and is proposed to be set up near Pangong Lake in Merak, Ladakh. 'Ladakh offers one of the best sky conditions for astrophysicists in India. The weather is mostly clear, the altitude is high, rainfall is scarce, and it is practically a cold desert," said Dr Jayant Joshi, project scientist at IIA, Bengaluru. 'These conditions make Ladakh an ideal site for ground-based telescopes. The proposed solar telescope will probably be the largest in Asia, offering scientists a powerful tool to study the Sun and its complex behaviour." Globally, the best astronomical observatories are built in high-altitude mountain ranges with minimal light pollution, like in Hawaii or Chile. That is because ground-based telescopes have to deal with atmospheric turbulence, where heat in the air creates wavy patterns that can blur what we see. But, positioning the telescope at such altitude near Pangong Lake helps reduce that distortion, as water has high specific heat – it does not heat up or cool down quickly, which keeps the surrounding air more stable – perfect for sharp astronomical observation. 'The project is now in an advanced stage, and currently awaiting financial approval. Once operational, it will capture highly detailed images, crucial for understanding solar flares, and the impact of space weather on satellites. Together with Aditya L-1, it will provide deeper insights into solar activity," added Dr Joshi. LADAKH'S BARREN LAND – A TEST BED FOR SPACE-SCIENCE Scientists are eager to harness Ladakh's potential – not just for breakthroughs in research, but also as a training ground for astronomers, stargazers and space-science enthusiasts. At over 3,000 metres above sea level, Ladakh has just 40 per cent of sea-level oxygen, allowing realistic testing of life-support systems in low-pressure, low-oxygen conditions similar to Mars. Last year, private space firm AAKA Space Studio in collaboration with the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) set up the country's first analog space mission in Leh, Ladakh – to support India's ambitious Human Spaceflight programme. Analog space facilities are essentially field tests on Earth that mimic extreme space environment, allowing scientists to test designs, materials, train crews, and conduct scientific experiments in realistic conditions. top videos View all 'Any space-faring nation aiming for the Moon or Mars must train its astronauts in extreme, Earth-based environments. With India targeting a Bhartiya Antriksh Station by 2035 and a Moon landing by 2040, setting up multiple analog research bases is essential," said Professor Aloke Kumar of IISc Bengaluru. 'Ladakh – with its dry, sub-zero temperatures, low precipitation, rocky terrain, permafrost, and high-altitude desert – is an ideal testbed that closely mimics Martian and lunar landscapes." Ladakh now also hosts – MACE – the largest imaging Cherenkov telescope in Asia and the highest of its kind in the world, located at around 4,300 metres. It was indigenously built by Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) to study very high-energy gamma rays from space, and inaugurated last October. With its unique geography and climate, the high-altitude Ladakh has now become an ideal, year-round field lab for geologists, geographers, astronomers, and space researchers from across India. Get breaking news, in-depth analysis, and expert perspectives on everything from politics to crime and society. Stay informed with the latest India news only on News18. Download the News18 App to stay updated! tags : ladakh northern lights Solar storm view comments Location : New Delhi, India, India First Published: July 22, 2025, 11:52 IST News india Eyeing The Stars: How India Is Turning Ladakh's Harsh Terrain Into A Science Launch-Pad Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. 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India.com
19-07-2025
- India.com
7 Jaw-Dropping Reasons Ladakh Feels Like A Portal To The Cosmos
When the sun slips behind the high Himalayas of Ladakh and the last colors fade from the sky something extraordinary happens The land of high passes and ancient monasteries transforms into one of the best stargazing destinations on Earth Sparse villages light up with candles and oil lamps while overhead a silent sea of stars unfolds in perfect clarity Few places on the planet offer such pure, unobstructed views of the cosmos as Ladakh No city lights No clouds No distractions Just you and the universe What makes Ladakh different from every other stargazing spot in India? It's not just the altitude. It's the emptiness. At over 3,000 meters above sea level Ladakh sits above the haze and pollution that blur skies elsewhere The air is thin and dry so stars shine brighter and twinkle less The desert plateaus become natural observatories where you can see the Milky Way stretch like a river of light And during winter, when days are short and nights last long, the sky feels endless Unlike crowded hill stations or coastal spots with fickle weather, Ladakh offers clear nights almost all year round From September to April, you have prime stargazing season with minimal cloud cover and crisp air that sharpens constellations into perfect focus This is a season of cosmic connection Ready to leave the city behind? Here are the top seven spots in Ladakh that every stargazer must visit Observatory – India's Window to the Stars Home to the Indian Astronomical Observatory this remote village hosts powerful telescopes under pristine skies Join a guided tour to peer at distant galaxies or simply lie on the cold desert ground and let the stars tell their own story Tso – Reflections Under the Milky Way This saltwater lake sits at 4,350 meters with a wide, flat shoreline ideal for night sky watching The still water mirrors stars and planets creating a double sky that feels like magic Moriri – Silent Shores and Shooting Stars Tso Moriri is quieter than Pangong but equally stunning The high-altitude lake and surrounding hills block any artificial light Making it perfect for spotting meteor showers and the faint glow of nebulae Valley – Desert Nights at Diskit Nubra's cold desert opens up into wide valleys where you can camp under open skies Book a night at a homestay in Diskit and wake to the sight of stars fading only when dawn arrives Monastery – Ancient Walls, Endless Sky Perched on rocky cliffs Lamayuru is one of Ladakh's oldest monasteries By day you explore caves and temples By night you explore the universe above these ancient stones Village – Rustic Charm, Cosmic Calm This small village near Leh has simple guesthouses that offer star talks on clear nights Local guides point out constellations and Ladakhi legends that tie earth and sky together Plateau – Where Silence Speaks The vast high plateau is one of the most remote places on Earth Drive through herder camps and you'll find clearings where the sky dominates Every shooting star feels like a personal gift Why choose Ladakh for stargazing Isn't the cold too harsh? Let's flip that question The cold is part of the charm It strips away noise and distraction When your breath forms clouds in the dark you know you are alive Each peak, each frozen lake, each crisp breeze reminds you that you're far from the everyday This is a space where time slows and the mind expands Here's what Ladakh's nights give you that other places can't: -Pristine Skies: Almost zero light pollution means stars shine at full strength -High Altitude: Less atmosphere means clearer views of distant galaxies -Dry Air: No humidity to blur or dim your vision -Cultural Depth: Stargazing here blends with local folklore and cosmic myths -Local Support: Homestays, guides, and chai stalls run by Ladakhi families make each night special -Practical Tips for Stargazing in Ladakh -Pack Warm Layers: Nights can drop below minus 10 °C even in summer -Bring a Red-Filter Torch: Keeps your night vision intact while you move -Use a Star-Chart App: Apps like SkyView work offline and help you name constellations -Start After Midnight: That's when human activity is lowest and skies are darkest -Stay Hydrated: High altitude can dehydrate you fast Don't forget water -Respect Local Customs: Ask permission before camping on private land The hidden benefits of astro-tourism in Ladakh When you travel off the beaten path your money helps small communities It supports local homestays, guides, and craftsmen By choosing eco-friendly tours you also protect these fragile landscapes Every rupee you spend shapes Ladakh's future So what's stopping you? A night under Ladakh's sky is more than stargazing. It's a cosmic journey that starts where the mountains end And while the world slumbers below, you'll be wide awake under a universe that still whispers its oldest tales Not for a selfie. Not for a reel. Just for the story you'll carry in your heart Final Thought Don't just visit Ladakh. Become a stargazer there. The next time you look up at a clear sky don't wish upon a star. Go find one.
The Hindu
17-07-2025
- Science
- The Hindu
Himalayan Chandra Telescope captures comet ATLAS
The Indian Astronomical Observatory at Hanle in Ladakh of the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) had recently captured the comet C/2025 N1 (ATLAS), which is only the third interstellar visitor to the solar system so far. The comet , also known as 3I/ATLAS, was first spotted by the ATLAS telescope in Chile, moving rapidly at a relative speed of 61 kilometre per second on July 1. The IIA said that this object has captured the attention of astronomers across the world and in order to promote interest and awareness on this celestial visitor among the students and general public in India, the Indian Astronomical Observatory at Hanle observed the comet using the Himalayan Chandra Telescope (HCT) on the night of July 3. 'Our webpage ( now has a video as well as montages of timelapse images of the comet using this data, along with additional details, for education and outreach purposes,' the IIA said on Thursday. The comet was discovered by international telescopes, the IIA said.
Time of India
17-05-2025
- Time of India
Top 5 places in India for stargazing and astrophotography
India has expansive landscapes and pockets of unspoiled nature, it offers incredible opportunities for stargazing and astrophotography. Though city light pollution obscures most of the night sky, several places in the country offer clear vistas of stars, planets, and the Milky Way. Here are six of the top destinations in India where the night sky lights up. Neil Island, Andaman and Nicobar Islands Neil Island in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands is an excellent choice if you wish to link your love for stargazing with a tropical experience. The island has some of the cleanest and quietest skies over the Indian Ocean, away from the mainland pollution. Stunning astrophotography is created by merging starry skies with palm plant shadows and ocean horizons. Neil Island provides a unique place to capture photos of the Milky Way over the ocean due to its laid-back environment and minimal commercial lights. The optimal time of year to visit here to view the stars is between November and April. Spiti valley, Himachal Pradesh Another Himalayan region with excellent stargazing is Spiti Valley, which lies between rocky mountains at elevations comparable to Ladakh. The valley offers extremely dark skies, minimal urbanisation, less humidity, and minimal artificial lighting. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 7 Mahalaxmi by Runwal Enterprises starting from 4.07 Cr* 7 Mahalaxmi Book Now Undo Astrophotographers especially like villages such as Dhankar, Tabo, and Kibber, which are often ringed by dramatic cliffs and ancient monasteries. Due to the very clear skies during the summer months of June to September, several local guides now organise stargazing seminars and camps, which are visited by tourists from all across the globe. Hanle, Ladakh In India, Hanle is arguably the best spot to see stars. One of the highest observatories in the world is the Indian Astronomical Observatory, which is located at 4,500 meters in the frigid eastern Ladakh desert. Because of its high elevation, arid climate, and near-zero light pollution, Hanle offers more than 250 clear nights annually and an extremely dark sky. For these very reasons, it is perfect for deep-sky gazing and astrophotography. The vast countryside makes a spectacular backdrop for time-lapse and Milky Way photos. If you visit between May and September, when the weather is clear, you will have the most fulfilling experience. Rann of Kutch, Gujarat Under the stars, the Great Rann of Kutch, which is renowned for its surreal white salt desert, is a stargazer's paradise. One of India's most scenic spots for stargazing during the arid winter months, the expansive, flat ground offers unrestricted vistas of the starry dome. Astrophotography is facilitated by the reflected salt crust, which often creates the illusion of stars both above and below. A cultural and universal experience, the Rann can be visited in its best manner from October through February, and also witnesses the vibrant Rann Utsav. Coorg and Kundremukh, Karnataka Coorg and Kudremukh in the southern Indian Western Ghats offer a surprise refuge for astronomers looking for dark skies in readily accessible spots. Post-monsoon from November to March brings sunny skies and pleasant temperatures despite the region's heavy monsoons. The natural scenery of these forested hill stations adds depth to night compositions, and they are far enough from large towns to reduce light pollution. On the best nights, Coorg and Kudremukh are ideal for photographing meteor showers, star trails, and even the Milky Way, although they are not as dark as locations in the Himalayas. One step to a healthier you—join Times Health+ Yoga and feel the change
The Age
26-04-2025
- The Age
Want a Himalayan trek minus the red tape? Consider ‘Little Tibet'
This story is part of the April 27 edition of Sunday Life. See all 13 stories. Peering out the window during the flight from Delhi to Leh, the plane seems to barely clear the soaring, snowcapped peaks of the Himalayas. Although only an hour from Delhi by air, Ladakh and its capital, Leh, are worlds away from the chaos that is usually part of the India experience. Here the landscape is harsh, barren, silent and lonely. The otherworldly terrain prompts frequent comparisons to Mars, and this alien-like quality is further enhanced by its elevation, some 3500 metres above sea level. Warnings of altitude and mountain sickness are broadcast as we land, and in the arrivals hall the tell-tale headaches and giddiness hit me: Leh can, quite literally, take your breath away. It's the 50 or so sacred mountains that comprise the Himalayas that are Leh's major drawcard. The area abounds with opportunities for summit-seekers to scale peaks, for cyclists to ride some of the highest roads on earth, and for hikers to embark on multi-day trails through the Markha Valley. Endowed with the moniker 'Little Tibet', Ladakh is where tourists can experience authentic Tibetan culture firsthand. While Tibet itself has numerous tourist restrictions, Leh has no such red tape. Tibetan refugees have made this region their home and the area's inaccessibility has helped preserve traditional Tibetan Buddhist culture, making it a time capsule of Tibet as it once was. Unlike the rest of India, where Hinduism is the predominant religion, the bulk of the population here are Buddhists. Ubiquitous prayer flags are strung up throughout the city like makeshift washing lines, stupas pepper the landscape, Buddhist burial grounds border the edges of the town, and whitewashed monasteries cling precariously to hillsides. Loading There are around 35 of these monasteries, or gompas, spread across the entire region, the bulk of them lying along the Indus River. These spiritual centres are divided across the five sects of Buddhism and each has its own quirks and appeal. I visit three of them, and though the pantheon of deities and demons, spirit-filled mythology and intricate symbolism, is mostly lost on me, I find it completely engrossing. Much of Leh's charm rests in its medieval old town, where flat, mud-brick buildings housing cute cafes and restaurants line the laneways. The main bazaar is the epicentre of the action and is where visitors can pick up any number of artisan goods and trinkets. Pashmina shawls are a speciality of the region, as are Tibetan handicrafts including wooden masks, mantra-inscribed prayer stones, singing bowls, silver jewellery, prayer wheels and, of course, prayer flags. As with any market in India, be prepared to flex your bargaining prowess. Come nighttime, the high altitude coupled with a lack of light pollution make it one of the planet's best places to stargaze. Unsurprisingly, Leh is home to the Indian Astronomical Observatory – the second-highest on Earth.
