How to reach Hanle
Hanle is located 270 km to the east of Leh, and it takes around 6-hour journey to reach. It stands at an elevation of 4200 meters above sea level (msl). Transportation options to Hanle include taxi services and a scheduled service bus, operating twice a week (Wednesday and Saturday from Leh to Hanle, and Thursday and Sunday from Hanle to Leh).
Hanle is home to the Indian Astronomical Observatory. At the heart of the village lies the Digpa Ratsa peak, which reaches its highest elevation at 4517 meters above sea level (MSL), and is currently referred to as Mt. Saraswati in tribute to the Hindu Goddess of Learning.
Indian Astronomical Observatory
Installed at Mt. Saraswati, the Himalayan Chandra Telescope (HCT) is a 2-meter aperture optical-infrared telescope manufactured by EOS Technologies Inc. of Tuscon, Arizona, USA. Operated remotely from CREST, Hosakote, via a dedicated satellite link, it features three science instruments mounted on an instrument mount cube at the telescope's Cassegrain focus. These instruments include the Himalaya Faint Object Spectrograph (HFOSC), the NIR Imaging Spectrograph (TIRSPEC), and the Hanle Echelle Spectrograph (HESP), with all three available simultaneously due to the instrument mount cube's configuration with four side ports and an on-axis port.
IAO hosts numerous organizations operating collaboratively, and it also serves as a hub for various initiatives. These include
- GROWTH (Global Relay of Observatories Watching Transients Happen), Collaboration of IIA & IIT Bombay
- MACE (Major Atmospheric Cerenkov Experiment Telescope), BARC Mumbai
- HAGAR (High Altitude GAmma Ray Telescope Array), Collaboration of TIFR & IIA.
- CARIBOU, a carbon dioxide monitoring station by CSIR.
- Other Projects by DRDO, ISRO
Observatory Facilities Guidelines
- The observatory facilities are exclusively reserved for scientific studies and mostly remotely accessed from Bangalore.
- There are NO services or telescopes available for visitors to utilize for observing celestial objects at IAO. The primary focus is on scientific research and observations conducted by trained professionals.
- Visitors are permitted to visit the observatory strictly during daylight hours. Night time access is restricted to ensure the safety and security of both visitors and the observatory's operations.
- Access to the observatory premises is limited during specific times. Prior to your visit, it's advisable to inquire with your homestay or travel agent for further information and guidance regarding entry arrangements.
- Vehicles are strictly not allowed beyond dedicated parking area. Vehicles are prohibited from approaching the telescope/dome area due to the highly sensitive nature of the optics system
- Presentation slides pertaining to IAO and telescopes are accessible within the HCT dome. These resources provide valuable information about the observatory's mission, research projects, and the technology used in astronomical observations.
- Visitors are welcome to review the PowerPoint presentation on their own, as it might not be practical for someone to offer explanations.
- Before entering the HCT dome, all visitors are required to complete the visitor log register. This procedure helps monitor and manage the influx of visitors, ensuring accountability and safety within the observatory premises.
- The observatory area is subject to constant surveillance via closed-circuit television (CCTV) systems. This measure is implemented to enhance security and deter any unauthorized access or activities within the facility.
DO & DON’Ts
- Avoid touching any instruments or electronic devices as they are highly sensitive to static discharge.
- Strict measures are enforced to prevent light pollution around the observatory.
- All areas except the Himalayan Chandra Telescope (HCT) are restricted.
- Visitor need to inform duty personal if they intent to visit any other facility.
- Keep the area clean and refrain from littering.
- Commercial videography and photography are not permitted without prior authorization.
- Please refrain from disturbing staff members while they are on duty.
- Inform the telescope operator on duty before proceeding with any activities.
Stargazing in Hanle
For individuals interested in observing the stars, they have the option to reach out to the Astro-Ambassadors located in Hanle village. These Astro-Ambassadors possess 8-inch Dobsonian Telescopes, which they offer for viewing to anyone interested, with charges applicable. This provides an opportunity for enthusiasts to explore the wonders of the night sky under the guidance of knowledgeable ambassadors equipped with quality equipment.