Debrigarh Sanctuary in Odisha’s Bargarh district has introduced a new attraction for tourists, especially celestial enthusiasts, with its ‘Star Gazing’ initiative. The sanctuary, situated near the Hirakud Dam, offers prime stargazing conditions due to its minimal human habitation and expansive, dark skies free from light pollution. This environment provides clear visibility, allowing easy identification of stars, constellations, and planets like Jupiter.
Key celestial features visible from Debrigarh include Sirius, the brightest star in the western sky, and Dhruv Tara (North Star), which indicates true north. Nearby constellations like Saptarshi Mandal (Ursa Major), Ursa Minor, Leo, Libra, and Gemini are also visible. While these stars are observable year-round, the Milky Way is best seen during summer, and Mars and Venus are visible in winter. Comets can be seen throughout the year, depending on the timing. The sanctuary’s location also provides stunning views of the sunset and moonrise over the Hirakud Dam.
To facilitate stargazing, the sanctuary has implemented soft, non-reflective lighting throughout the Debrigarh Ecotourism campus after 6.30 pm, replacing previous strong lighting. Six new stargazing rooms have been constructed at the Debrigarh Nature Camp, featuring glass roofs, star photo frames, and stargazing literature. A telescope is available for deeper sky exploration. Trained local community members guide visitors from 7 pm to 7.30 pm, helping them identify stars and constellations. This initiative has generated significant interest, with many bookings for the new stargazing rooms.
Visitors have expressed high satisfaction with the new offering. Dr. Archana Pani, Chief Medical Officer from Rourkela, praised the experience, noting the exceptional hospitality and food provided by the staff. Rishika, a Class X student, enjoyed the sanctuary’s library and appreciated the chance to observe stars through the telescope, finding peace in the natural surroundings.
In addition to stargazing, visitors to Debrigarh Sanctuary can encounter a variety of wildlife. The sanctuary is home to over 40 mammalian species, 12 amphibian species, 200 bird species, 40 reptile species, 42 fish species, 39 odonate species, 85 butterfly species, and 38 spider species, making it a rich biodiversity hotspot.
Debrigarh Sanctuary in Odisha’s Bargarh district has introduced a new attraction for tourists, especially celestial enthusiasts, with its ‘Star Gazing’ initiative. The sanctuary, situated near the Hirakud Dam, offers prime stargazing conditions due to its minimal human habitation and expansive, dark skies free from light pollution. This environment provides clear visibility, allowing easy identification of stars, constellations, and planets like Jupiter.
Key celestial features visible from Debrigarh include Sirius, the brightest star in the western sky, and Dhruv Tara (North Star), which indicates true north. Nearby constellations like Saptarshi Mandal (Ursa Major), Ursa Minor, Leo, Libra, and Gemini are also visible. While these stars are observable year-round, the Milky Way is best seen during summer, and Mars and Venus are visible in winter. Comets can be seen throughout the year, depending on the timing. The sanctuary’s location also provides stunning views of the sunset and moonrise over the Hirakud Dam.
To facilitate stargazing, the sanctuary has implemented soft, non-reflective lighting throughout the Debrigarh Ecotourism campus after 6.30 pm, replacing previous strong lighting. Six new stargazing rooms have been constructed at the Debrigarh Nature Camp, featuring glass roofs, star photo frames, and stargazing literature. A telescope is available for deeper sky exploration. Trained local community members guide visitors from 7 pm to 7.30 pm, helping them identify stars and constellations. This initiative has generated significant interest, with many bookings for the new stargazing rooms.
Visitors have expressed high satisfaction with the new offering. Dr. Archana Pani, Chief Medical Officer from Rourkela, praised the experience, noting the exceptional hospitality and food provided by the staff. Rishika, a Class X student, enjoyed the sanctuary’s library and appreciated the chance to observe stars through the telescope, finding peace in the natural surroundings.
In addition to stargazing, visitors to Debrigarh Sanctuary can encounter a variety of wildlife. The sanctuary is home to over 40 mammalian species, 12 amphibian species, 200 bird species, 40 reptile species, 42 fish species, 39 odonate species, 85 butterfly species, and 38 spider species, making it a rich biodiversity hotspot.
