Stargazing near Nagpur, under the dark skies of Pench

City lights wash out most of the night sky. A short drive out of Nagpur, at the edge of Pench National Park, Beyond Earth Observatory gives you a sky with far more stars, and a guide and telescopes to explore it.

Our guided session lasts about 45 minutes. We start with what you can see with your own eyes: bright stars, constellations and planets. Then we move to the telescopes for a closer look, which can include the Moon's craters, planets, star clusters, nebulae and galaxies, depending on the night.

We are open every night from 7 to 11 pm. Sessions depend on weather and sky conditions, so message us before you set out.

Beyond Earth is at Khasra No. 28/3/3, Plot No. 48, Awargani, Kohka, Madhya Pradesh 480881, near Pench National Park. Nagpur is the nearest major city, airport and railway station, and Pench is generally a drive of roughly two hours from it. The time varies with your route and traffic, so use the Google Maps link and message us if you need directions.

Many guests combine a weekend in Pench with a night at Astro Village, our homestay just beneath the observatory, so there is no late drive back after the session.

• Check the Moon calendar. Around the new moon the sky is darkest, best for faint star clusters and galaxies. Around the full moon, the Moon itself is the star of the show.
• Bring warm clothing in winter. Nights in central India can be cold.
• If you have one, bring a torch with a red light, which protects night vision.
• Photographers are welcome to bring a camera and tripod.
• Visiting with a school, college or large group? See schools and groups.