A dark sky sanctuary promotes proper illumination where and when it is needed without wasting energy and polluting other areas, especially the night sky, which does not require illumination
A tripartite memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the UT administration, LAHDC Leh and Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) in presence of Lt Governor R K Mathur, was signed for the setting up of the first dark sky reserve of the country at Hanley in the Union Territory of Ladakh, according to an official spokesman.
A dark sky sanctuary promotes proper illumination where and when it is needed without wasting energy and polluting other areas, especially the night sky, which does not require illumination.
There is a move to get affiliation from international bodies such as the International Dark Sky Association and Starlight Foundation
“The dark sky reserve at Hanley will prove beneficial to the scientific community and also contribute to the economy of the people of Changthang,” Lt Governor Mathur said. He said he wanted to see the creation of more scientific infrastructure and experts from the scientific community conducting research work on Ladakh. Mathur said the installed telescopes in homestays would be connected to a computer with internet facilities so that the tourists can watch the celestial bodies from anywhere in the world.
Mathur requested the Army for its assistance in ensuring protective measures for the dark sky reserve and also for the development of model villages in Changthang.
He shared that the plan to get affiliation from international bodies such as the International Dark Sky Association and Starlight Foundation.
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