Wonders of the Night Sky: An Amateur Astronomer's Hike Across the Universe
Date
Wednesday, October 23, 2024
Location
R101, IIIT Bangalore
Wonders of the Night Sky
An Amateur Astronomer’s Hike Across the Universe
A seminar by Prof. Balakrishnan Ashok
ECLIPSE hosted Prof. Balakrishnan Ashok for a session crafted especially for beginners and curious minds — a guided tour of the cosmos that required no prior knowledge, just a sense of wonder.
About the Talk
Prof. Ashok’s session was built around a simple but powerful idea: you don’t need a research-grade telescope or a PhD to experience the universe. Amateur astronomy is rich, rewarding, and accessible to anyone willing to step outside on a clear night.
The session explored:
- Celestial objects visible to the naked eye — constellations, planets, star clusters, and the Milky Way
- What you can see with basic equipment — from binoculars to entry-level telescopes
- Astronomical observations and discoveries that don’t require expensive gear
- Theoretical highlights — fascinating phenomena like variable stars, double stars, and seasonal skies
- How to get started — practical tips for beginners picking up their first telescope or stargazing guide
Who Attended
The session drew students from the batch of 2024 as well as returning members of ECLIPSE, and served as both an introduction to observational astronomy and an inspiration to get outside and look up.
Organized by ECLIPSE Astronomy Club, IIIT Bangalore.