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Time of India
26-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
When the night is dark, it's time for a stargazing bash
There's something magical about lying under a blanket of stars, sipping something warm, and watching the sky tell stories older than time. Hosting a backyard stargazing party isn't just about watching constellations—it's about connection. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now With the cosmos, with nature, and with each other. Whether you're a constellation connoisseur or a casual comet spotter, the night sky has a way of bringing everyone together. So, on this International Dark Sky Week that lasts till April 28, put away the phones, pass around the popcorn, and look up. The universe has been waiting. Starry timing is everything A successful stargazing party starts with picking the right night. 'Timing is crucial,' says Victor Chakraborty, co-founder and CEO of Astra Sitara Astronomical Observatory, Kolkata. 'The best time to stargaze is in the evening when moisture is low, or after midnight,' he adds. Clear skies are a must, so check that weather app like your party depends on it—because it kinda does. Bonus points if you can time it with a meteor shower or a lunar eclipse. Now that's cosmic planning. Set the stage for a stargazing glory Turn your backyard into a cozy observatory. Raghunandan Saraf, founder and CEO, Saraf Furniture suggests, 'Add string lights, mason jar lanterns, or glow-in-the-dark stars to create a dreamy, ambient vibe. Sheer cloth can also be used as a canopy or backdrop. Set up comfy seating with low ottomans, soft blankets, and floor cushions. Position small tables with candles or LED lights. Simple star or moon decorations on the table would enhance the dreamy effect.' Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Want to go the extra mile? Play a soft ambient or space-themed playlist in the background. Telescope? Binoculars? Use what you've got! Stargazing in a bustling city like Kolkata? Absolutely possible—if the skies are clear! Saikat Bhadra, a member of the Sky Watchers' Association, Kolkata, explains, 'Light pollution does limit the view, but you can still spot bright constellations. For the best experience, though, heading to the outskirts—away from city lights—is ideal.' 'Even within the city, a clear night sky can offer a surprisingly magical show. You don't need any fancy gear to begin—just lie back, look up, and try identifying constellations with the naked eye. However, if you're curious about spotting specific celestial wonders like the Moon or Jupiter, a telescope or a good pair of binoculars can really enhance the experience.,' he adds. Time for some starry snacks No stargazing soirée is complete without a space-themed spread. Chef Aman Choudhary from CYK Hospitalities recommends letting the cosmos inspire your menu. 'Think galaxy-glazed donuts, nebula mousse cups, or dark blue butterfly pea pasta. Use ingredients like activated charcoal, blueberries, or edible glitter to mimic the night sky. Even the savory snacks—black bean sliders or cheese bites cut into stars—can be celestial. Bonus: they taste as good as they look,' he adds.
Time of India
24-04-2025
- Science
- Time of India
A smiley face in the sky? Catch this rare celestial alignment
A rare celestial event is set to grace the Indian skies, as the crescent moon aligns with Venus and Saturn to form a 'smiley face'. This 'massing,' a gathering of celestial bodies, will be visible just before sunrise. Sky Watchers' Association highlights the crescent moon's perfect smile shape, with Venus and Saturn acting as eyes. In a rare alignment, the crescent moon will cozy up with the planets Venus and Saturn, creating what's being playfully dubbed a 'smiley face' in the heavens. While astronomers know this gathering of three or more celestial bodies as a 'massing,' the unique configuration promises a visual treat you won't want to miss. The moon's delicate crescent will form the lips of this cosmic grin, with the bright gleam of Venus and the more subtle glow of Saturn acting as the eyes. Though these celestial wanderers are separated by unimaginable distances, their alignment along our line of sight offers a beautiful reminder of the solar system's intricate dance. Decoding the cosmic wink: Why this alignment is special While conjunctions, where two celestial objects appear close, are fairly routine due to the planets orbiting the sun on a similar plane but at varying speeds, this particular 'massing' stands out. As Samindra Basu, a member of the Executive Committee of the Sky Watchers' Association, Kolkata, explains, the crescent moon's phase perfectly mimics a smile, with the contrasting brightness of Venus and the fainter Saturn positioned to resemble eyes. This whimsical arrangement makes this celestial event particularly engaging and memorable. Your Guide to Catching the Cosmic Smile Over India Spotting this celestial smile will require a bit of planning, but it's an achievable feat from anywhere in India. Here's your guide to maximizing your chances of a successful viewing: Time is Key : This event will be visible just before sunrise, meaning you'll have a limited window. Saturn will be the last to rise around 3:19 am IST but wait approximately another 30 minutes for better visibility as the sky begins to lighten. Horizon Hunt: Find a location with a clear, unobstructed view of the eastern horizon. Buildings, trees, or hills will block your view. Light Pollution Beware: Escape the glare of city lights. The darker your surroundings, the easier it will be to spot the fainter Saturn. Dust in the atmosphere can also hinder visibility. Clear Skies are Your Best Friend: Check weather forecasts for predictions of clear skies in your area. Clouds will obviously obscure the view. Safety First - Eyes on the Prize, Not the Sun! ABSOLUTELY DO NOT LOOK DIRECTLY AT THE SUN. Even a fleeting glance can cause permanent and severe eye damage. Observe only before sunrise. Location, Safety: Assess your chosen viewing spot for safety in the pre-dawn hours. Ensure its accessible and free from hazards.
