Starscapes is set to host a unique Blue Moon astrophotography and night sky experience in Ladakh, bringing together astronomy enthusiasts, travellers, and curious observers for an immersive celestial event under some of the darkest skies in the world. The event will be held from 26th May to 2nd June, spanning across Leh, Nubra Valley, Pangong Lake and Hanle.
Scheduled around the rare occurrence of a Blue Moon — the second full moon in a calendar month, sometimes referred to as the “13th moon of the year”, the experience is designed to offer participants a front-row seat to this astronomical phenomenon, enhanced by expert-led sessions and curated sky observation activities. Known for its Bortle Scale 1 skies, Ladakh provides near-perfect visibility with minimal light pollution, making it ideal for both observation and astrophotography.
Unlike conventional Ladakh itineraries, the programme is designed as an astronomy-led journey, where participants don’t just witness the night sky but actively engage with it. Through expert-led sessions, attendees will learn to observe, understand, and capture celestial events, even using mobile phones, making astrophotography and space science more accessible than ever.
The event also coincides with the Saka Dawa Tibetan Festival, beginning on 31st May, allowing participants to immerse themselves in Ladakhi culture alongside the celestial experience. From local traditions to cultural interactions, the programme is designed to offer a holistic blend of science, travel, and local experiences.
Participants attending the event will get to experience:
- Guided night sky observation sessions using advanced telescopes
- Deep dives into lunar science and celestial mechanics
- Astrophotography opportunities under expert guidance
- Interactive sessions led by experienced astronomers and educators
- A holistic astro-tourism experience combining science, travel, and storytelling
The itinerary begins with arrival at Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport and acclimatisation in Leh, followed by local sightseeing including the Hall of Fame, Spituk Monastery, Magnetic Hill, Indus Zanskar Sangam and Shanti Stupa; the journey then explores the Aryan Valley villages before returning via Lamayuru Monastery and Alchi Monastery, continues through Khardung La Pass to Nubra and Turtuk, onward to Pangong Lake, then to Hanle, and finally back to Leh via Chang La Pass with visits to Thiksey Monastery and Shey Palace, concluding with departure.
The event is part of Starscapes’ continued efforts to make astronomy more accessible and experiential, taking it beyond textbooks and into real-world environments. By hosting such events in remote dark-sky locations like Ladakh, the company aims to foster deeper public engagement with space science while promoting sustainable and responsible tourism.
- Location: Ladakh
- Event: Astrophotography Blue Moon Observation Experience
- Dates: 26th May – 2nd June, 2026
The event is open to astronomy enthusiasts, photographers, travellers, and anyone keen to witness a rare celestial occurrence in one of India’s most breathtaking landscapes.
