About Hanle Dark Sky Reserve (HDSR)
- The Hanle Dark Sky Reserve (HDSR) was notified in December 2022 by the Government of Ladakh.
- It is India’s first International Dark Sky Reserve, centred around the Indian Astronomical Observatory (IAO) at Hanle, managed by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) under the Department of Science and Technology (DST).
- The Reserve is a science-driven socio-economic development project, built on two pillars:
- Curtailing light pollution in the region.
- Promoting astro-tourism for local livelihood generation.
- It is part of the Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary.
- The UT Ladakh administration supports the project by funding astro-tourism initiatives and light management plans.
- The event was jointly organised by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA), the Department of Wildlife Protection of UT Ladakh, and the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC).
What is a Dark Sky Reserve?
- Defined by the International Dark Sky Association (IDSA) as a large land area (at least 700 km²) with exceptionally dark skies, protected for scientific, cultural, natural, and public enjoyment.
- Requires:
- A core area free from light pollution.
- A surrounding buffer area to protect core values.
- A Lighting Management Plan (LMP) covering at least 80% population and area.
- Regular annual reporting to IDSA.
