Astronomy enthusiasts attend stargazing camp on Hyderabad outskirts

Seastar Smart Telescope helped the enthusiasts capture stunning images of planets and nebulae, while the 8-inch Dobsonian telescope was helped look at Jupiter’s banded atmosphere and Saturn’s iconic rings. The 130 Celestron Astromaster allowed viewers to witness the intricate dance of Jupiter’s four Galilean moons.

Hyderabad: The Telangana Forest Development Corporation (TGFDC) has organised a stargazing camp at Manchirevula in Chilkur Reserve Forest. This initiative was launched in collaboration with the Hyderabad Adventure and Trekkers Club, according to a press release here on Tuesday.

More than 50 astronomy enthusiasts participated in the event organised on Sunday night.

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Inaugurating the camp, the corporation director  L Ranjeet Naik underscored the importance of stargazing in a natural setting. He said observing the night sky amidst the forest enhances awareness of the universe. Star gazing, like forest conservation, fosters respect for nature.

The Seastar Smart Telescope which was used enabled the astronomy enthusiasts with capture stunning images of planets and nebulae. Meanwhile, an 8-inch Dobsonian telescope was also used to have a look at the breathtaking views of Jupiter’s banded atmosphere and Saturn’s iconic rings. The 130 Celestron Astromaster allowed viewers to witness the intricate dance of Jupiter’s four Galilean moons.

Participants also explored the cultural significance of these celestial formations in Hindu and Egyptian traditions with a special focus on the alignment of Orion’s Belt with the pyramids of Giza, the press release added.