Hello all,
As a club, one of our primary goals has always been to get more people interested in astronomy and help them grow beyond simply attending events. We want our members to be comfortable under the night sky, confident in identifying celestial objects, and capable of using astronomy equipment when we head out for observations.
Over the years, we have conducted many beginner sessions, but one challenge has always remained: astronomy is a practical hobby, and some things are simply difficult to teach inside a classroom. Learning how to find constellations, navigate the night sky, or use a telescope makes much more sense when you’re actually outdoors looking up.
We’ve also seen how much people enjoy learning during our star parties, where some of the best discussions happen under the stars rather than in front of a projector.
So, taking advantage of this in-between season where the weather isn’t quite reliable enough for our regular star parties but is still good enough for learning the sky and spotting constellations, we’re organizing a small-group Beginner Astronomy Workshop.
This will be a focused, hands-on learning experience with a limited number of participants, a few experienced astronomers, and plenty of opportunities to learn astronomy where it is best learned: under the night sky.
Please read the following thoroughly before registering:
Date: 2026-06-13T05:30:00Z→2026-06-14T01:30:00Z
Cost: Rs. 2000 per adult(for kids below 12 years of age, it will be ~200-300 cheaper, will confirm in a few days). Includes lunch, evening snacks, dinner, and morning refreshments(not breakfast)
Venue: Will be revealed to shortlisted participants but within 2-3 hours drive from Chennai.
Registration Link: Events - Chennai Astronomy Club
FAQ
What exactly is this workshop?
This is a hands-on beginner astronomy workshop conducted at a dark location away from city lights. The goal is simple: we want participants to become comfortable with the night sky, learn how to find their way around it, and gain confidence using basic astronomy equipment.
Is this a star party?
No. This is a workshop first and a star party second. We will do some observing, but the primary objective is learning. We will spend time understanding the sky, identifying constellations, learning how telescopes work, and developing observing skills. If your goal is only to look through telescopes for a few hours, our regular star parties are probably a better fit.
What will be covered?
Topics may include:
- Understanding the night sky
- Cardinal directions and celestial navigation
- Why the sky appears to move
- Seasonal constellations
- Identifying bright stars and planets
- Using star charts and astronomy apps
- Introduction to telescopes
- Telescope mounts and eyepieces
- Magnification myths and misconceptions
- Finding objects in the sky
- Observing techniques
- The Moon and planets
- Star clusters, nebulae and galaxies
- Planning your own observing sessions
- Astronomy equipment and accessories
- Common beginner mistakes
- Help in shortlisting equipment to purchase
Most of these topics will be taught outdoors using the actual sky as our classroom.
Will I get hands-on experience with telescopes?
Yes. Participants will learn:
- Telescope components
- Basic setup
- Focusing
- Eyepiece selection
- Pointing and finding targets
- Observing etiquette
- Basic troubleshooting
Our aim is that you should feel comfortable approaching a telescope after the workshop rather than being intimidated by one.
Will you cover astrophotography?
Not really. Astrophotography is a huge subject and deserves a dedicated workshop of its own. We may briefly discuss what is involved, the kinds of equipment used, and how people get started. We may even show a few simple techniques if time permits. However, there will not be any detailed astrophotography training during this event. The emphasis is on becoming a better observer, not a better photographer.
I am interested only in astrophotography. Should I attend?
Probably not. You are welcome to apply, but you should know that astrophotography will only be touched upon briefly. If your primary interest is imaging, you may find future workshops dedicated to that topic more useful.
Can I bring my own telescope?
Absolutely. In fact, if you own a telescope and have been struggling to use it, this workshop is probably one of the best places to bring it. We will try our best to help you understand and use your equipment effectively.
Who is this workshop intended for?
This workshop is ideal for:
- Complete beginners
- People who have attended a few star parties
- New telescope owners
- People who have always wanted to learn astronomy properly
No prior knowledge is required.
I already know some astronomy. Can I still attend?
Yes. However, much of the content is designed for beginners. If you can already identify major constellations, use a telescope comfortably, and find objects independently, you may already know a good portion of the material.
Can I bring my family?
We would love for astronomy to become a family hobby. However, due to practical limitations at the venue and because we are intentionally keeping the group small, we cannot accommodate large groups.
Why are you limiting the number of participants?
Because astronomy is best learned in small groups. We want everyone to have enough time with instructors, equipment, and the night sky. A workshop with 15 participants feels very different from an event with 30 participants. Smaller groups allow for better discussions, more questions, and more hands-on learning.
Why are applications being shortlisted?
We expect more interest than available slots. Since the workshop is intended for people who genuinely want to learn astronomy, we would like to prioritize those who are likely to benefit most and continue participating in future club activities. That is why the “Why do you want to attend?” question is important.
Why does the workshop cost â‚ą2000?
Like all our events, this is not a profit-making activity. â‚ą250 is the club component, similar to our regular star parties. The remaining amount goes towards venue expenses, food, and accommodation.
What if the weather is bad?
Astronomy and weather have never had the best relationship. If conditions are suitable, all planned outdoor activities will go ahead. If clouds interfere, we will adapt the program and focus more on equipment demonstrations, sky simulation tools, discussions, practical exercises, and Q&A sessions. The workshop will still take place.
What should I bring?
A detailed checklist will be shared later, but generally:
- Comfortable clothing
- Water bottle
- Torch with red light if possible
- Notebook and pen
- Personal medications
- Power bank
What if I cannot attend this workshop?
Don’t worry. We plan to continue conducting beginner-focused astronomy sessions in different formats. Many of these topics will also be covered during our city meetups in shorter sessions. You can still learn the same concepts and join us for a future workshop.
I don’t want the beginner sessions. I just want to come and stargaze.
Please DM us. Depending on the venue and available space, we may allow a very small number of experienced participants to tag along. However, beginners will be given priority.
Will I become an astronomer after one workshop?
No. But you should leave with a much better understanding of the night sky, a clearer idea of how astronomy equipment works, and enough confidence to continue exploring the universe on your own. That is how most astronomers start.