Tag: HDSR

Second Edition of Hanle Dark Sky Reserve Star Party Observed in Ladakh

Manish Kumar

Expert astro-photographers and amateur astronomers came together at the Hanle Dark Sky Reserve between 29 September to 4 October 2024, for the second Star Party. The unique event was organised by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) an autonomous institute of the Department of Science and Technology (DST) in collaboration with Department of Wildlife Protection of UT Ladakh, and Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) and was attended by more than 45 astronomy enthusiasts from across the country. Hanle and the surrounding region are host to some of the darkest night…

DAE Inaugurates MACE, Asia’s Largest and World’s Highest Imaging Cherenkov Observatory in Ladakh

Manish Kumar

The Major Atmospheric Cherenkov Experiment (MACE) Observatory has been inaugurated by Dr. Ajit Kumar Mohanty, Secretary DAE & Chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission, at Hanle, Ladakh, on 4th October 2024. MACE is the largest imaging Cherenkov telescope in Asia. Located at an altitude of ~4,300 m, it is also the highest of its kind in the world. The telescope is indigenously built by BARC with support from ECIL and other Indian industry partners. The inaugural of MACE Observatory was a part of the Platinum Jubilee year celebrations of the DAE. The…