Hanle Dark Sky Reserve (HDSR)

Hanle Dark Sky Reserve (HDSR) Latest News

The Hanle Dark Sky Reserve (HDSR) in Ladakh recently hosted its third annual Star Party.

About Hanle Dark Sky Reserve (HDSR)

• The Hanle Dark Sky Reserve (HDSR) was notified in December 2022 by the Government of Ladakh.
• It is India’s first International Dark Sky Reserve, centred around the Indian Astronomical Observatory (IAO) at Hanle, managed by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) under the Department of Science and Technology (DST).
• The Reserve is a science-driven socio-economic development project, built on two pillars:
  • Curtailing light pollution in the region.
  • Promoting astro-tourism for local livelihood generation.
• It is part of the Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary, located at 4,500 metres altitude, offering Bortle-1 dark skies (the darkest category).
• The UT Ladakh administration supports the project by funding astro-tourism initiatives and light management plans.
• The event was jointly organised by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA), the Department of Wildlife Protection of UT Ladakh, and the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC).

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What is a Dark Sky Reserve?

• Defined by the International Dark Sky Association (IDSA) as a large land area (at least 700 km²) with exceptionally dark skies, protected for scientific, cultural, natural, and public enjoyment.
• Requires:
  • A core area free from light pollution.
  • A surrounding buffer area to protect core values.
  • A Lighting Management Plan (LMP) covering at least 80% population and area.
  • Regular annual reporting to IDSA.

Source: PIB