Gurkha Fort Nakshatra Sabha

Join us for the Nakshatra Sabha at the majestic Gurkha Fort in Pithoragarh, where astronomy, history, and nature come together for an unforgettable celestial experience. Set atop a hill with a panoramic 360-degree view of the surrounding landscape, Gurkha Fort offers an idyllic setting for stargazing, astrophotography, and exploring the universe’s wonders. This event falls on the spring equinox, providing a unique opportunity to witness the nearly equal length of day and night and delve into the equinox’s significance in both astronomy and ancient cultures. With a range of activities, workshops, and nature exploration, this Nakshatra Sabha is the perfect escape for astronomy enthusiasts, adventurers, and culture lovers alike!

About Pithoragarh and How to Get There

The Gurkha Fort event uniquely focuses on the spring equinox and its cultural and astronomical significance. Participants will learn how ancient civilizations used equinoxes to align their structures and mark the changing seasons. The fort’s panoramic view allows for observing the sunrise and sunset during the equinox, providing a tangible understanding of this natural phenomenon. Additionally, the event includes a night hike to the fort’s highest point, where attendees will experience an uninterrupted, expansive view of the sky, ideal for identifying constellations and deep-sky objects.

AstronomyThe Heart of Nakshatra Sabha Gurkha Fort

Astronomy is the centerpiece of Nakshatra Sabha, and Gurkha Fort provides an exceptional vantage point for celestial exploration. Starscapes brings state-of-the-art equipment, including large-aperture Dobsonian and computerized GoTo telescopes, to ensure an immersive stargazing experience. Our Starguides will lead participants through a cosmic journey, offering a blend of sky tours, astrophotography workshops, and educational sessions.

• Spring Equinox: The event coincides with the spring equinox, a time when day and night are nearly equal in length. Our Starguides will explain the significance of this natural event, highlighting how ancient civilizations used equinoxes to mark time and align their structures with celestial bodies.
• The Virgo Cluster of Galaxies: The dark skies of Pithoragarh provide an ideal setting for viewing the Virgo Cluster, a group of galaxies that will be prominently visible in the constellation Virgo. With our high-powered telescopes, participants can observe several of these galaxies, gaining a unique perspective on the vastness of the universe.
• The Moon: As a waxing crescent, the moon will reveal its detailed surface features, including craters, mountains, and valleys, offering an excellent opportunity for lunar observation.
• Leo and Virgo Constellations: Participants will learn to identify the constellations Leo and Virgo, both prominent in the spring sky. Our Starguides will share stories from mythology and highlight the fascinating deep-sky objects located within these constellations.

Our experienced Starguides will navigate participants through the celestial wonders, explaining the equinox’s importance and teaching how to identify spring constellations and stars. They will also provide hands-on guidance during astrophotography sessions, helping you capture mesmerizing images of star clusters, galaxies, and the moon. Whether you are a novice or a seasoned stargazer, these interactive sessions will enhance your knowledge of the night sky and its mysteries.

Activities

• Astronomy by Day and Night: Engage in solar observations during the day using solar goggles and H-Alpha filters to safely view the sun’s dynamic surface features, including sunspots and solar flares. As night falls, immerse yourself in a guided exploration of the stars, planets, and galaxies through our high-powered telescopes, experiencing the universe’s grandeur.
• Astrophotography: Learn the art of astrophotography with guidance from experts as they teach you how to capture stunning images of the night sky, star trails, and deep-sky objects like the Virgo Cluster of galaxies. Workshops will cover techniques to photograph the spring constellations and celestial events during the equinox.
• Hikes and Nature Walks: Embark on guided hikes through the dense forests surrounding Gurkha Fort, exploring the region’s diverse flora and fauna. Experience the tranquility of the Himalayan foothills and take in breathtaking views of the snow-capped peaks in the distance.
• Birding: The forests around Pithoragarh are home to a rich variety of bird species. Join early morning bird-watching sessions to observe these avian wonders in their natural habitat, learning about their behaviors and adaptations.
• Cycling: Enjoy cycling through the scenic terrains around Gurkha Fort, traversing forested paths and hillsides while breathing in the fresh mountain air.
• Live Music: Unwind in the evenings with live music sessions around a campfire, where the melodies blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings and the starry sky overhead, creating a soulful experience for all.
• Workshops and Panel Discussions: Participate in workshops and discussions focusing on dark sky conservation, the historical and cultural significance of the spring equinox, and the use of astronomy in ancient navigation and timekeeping.
• DIY Astronomy Stations: Visit interactive DIY astronomy stations where you can experiment with building simple telescopes, use star maps to locate constellations, and engage in fun hands-on activities to deepen your understanding of astronomy.
• Merchandise: Take home a souvenir from the event by exploring our selection of astronomy-themed merchandise, including stargazing guides, telescopes, and exclusive Nakshatra Sabha collectibles.