Department of Tourism, UT Ladakh Organises Second Day of Astro Week Festival at Lamayuru Monastery.

Department of Tourism, UT Ladakh Organises Second Day of Astro Week Festival at Lamayuru Monastery.
Leh, May 21, 2026: The Department of Tourism, Union Territory of Ladakh, in collaboration with the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) along with Knowledge partners Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, TATA institute of Fundamental research successfully organised the second day of the Astro Week Festival at the historic Lamayuru Monastery.
Professor Biman Nath, Special Guest Speaker, graced the occasion with his insightful address.
The evening event witnessed enthusiastic participation from students and teachers of Lamayuru High School, local villagers, and monks from Lamayuru Monastery.
The program began with an informative presentation by Technical officer E , Stanzin Norlha from the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC), Leh-Ladakh. He gave a detailed overview of the Solar System in Ladakhi with special emphasis on Planet Earth — its atmosphere, astrophysical history, and importance. He also explained the differences between asteroids and comets and highlighted why Ladakh’s night sky is ideal for astronomical observations.
This was followed by the special address by Professor Biman Nath from the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Mohali, formerly with the Raman Research Institute, Bengaluru. He captivated the audience with his insights on stars, the Universe, light hours, light years, and the concept of time travel in astronomy.
The presentations were followed by an interactive question-and-answer session in which officials addressed queries from the audience.
The program concluded with a practical stargazing session where students, villagers, monks, and guests observed the Moon, Jupiter, and other celestial bodies through telescopes under the pristine Ladakh skies.
This Astro Week Festival aims to promote astro tourism, scientific awareness, astronomy education through the wonders of the night sky in the region.