astronomy

telescope

Jayant Narlikar

Velhe taluka

rings

Saturn

Venus

aperture

The moon looks like a silver dot to the naked eye, but if viewed through the Dobsonian, the celestial body’s landscape is clearly visible. “You can see the moon’s mountains and canyons with the telescope,” says Bhushan Karmarkar, who owns the model and uses it for stargazing activities.Karmarkar was inspired to take to astronomy after attending a programme that featured the renowned astrophysicist,. “He talked about plotting constellations and other topics related to astronomy with the help of an old projector,” he recalls. Karmarkar, who was in school then, began to read books on astronomy after listening to Narlikar’s talk.About four years ago, Karmarkar founded the Amateur Astronomers Group, whose members will gather at a farmhouse in Kondgaon, a village in, for a stargazing session. The event is open to all and every participant will get a chance to use the 12-inch Dobsonian telescope, adds Karmarkar.Entitled ‘Astronomy Stargazing & Camping’, the itinerary for the night lists observing theofin conjunction with a crescent moon, the moon’s surface, star clusters, nebula and deep-sky objects, presentations and astronomy games. Viewing heavenly bodies with the Dobsonian telescope would be the highlight of the evening.The Dobsonian telescope is fitted with anthat’s wide enough to enhance the experience of spotting heavenly bodies. Karmarkar also owns an 80mm refractor telescope. The stargazing session will begin with witnessing the night sky with unaided vision. “We will attempt to identify different constellations and share mythological stories associated with them,” he adds.The group will use the two telescopes in the second-half of the session. Karmarkar says he will demonstrate the Dobsonian telescope’s features and explain how heavenly bodies such as star clusters, nebula and deep-sky objects exist in space. “Groups of stars bound together by the force of gravity constitute star clusters.Interstellar clouds of dust and gas form nebulas,” he explains. Videos on astronomy will be screened and informative presentations are included in the programme as well. A quiz competition will also take place simultaneously.Tent accommodation, snacks, dinner (vegetarian) and coffee will be provided. “You must drive to Kondgaon,” says co-organiser Shruti Karmarkar, “Volunteers will be stationed along the route to guide pariticpants driving to the location.”The activities will begin after sunset. Shruti along with Karmarkar and four other volunteers will lead the programme. At least 50 people are expected to turn up.Kondgaon, Khanapur-Velha RoadNovember 10, 6 pm9167977586, 9730470641Rs 1,249