Gauhati University Observatory

History

Established in 1990, the Gauhati University Observatory is supported by the Inter University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA), Pune, and the Astronomical Society of India. It was founded by the internationally recognized astrophysicists Dr. Hiralal Duorah, former Vice Chancellor of GU, and Late Dr. Kalpana Duorah.

Since then, it has served as a cornerstone for astronomy education and public awareness in Northeast India, facilitating observational training for MSc Physics students and conducting outreach activities across the community.

Telescopes and Equipment

The observatory began with a 3-inch refractor, 6-inch reflector, and 12-inch reflector telescopes housed under a hemispherical dome. Significant upgrades include an electrically powered sliding dome (2009), installation of 9 and 16-inch reflector telescopes, and a 6-inch motorized refractor telescope added in 2017 with DST FIST support.

Currently, the observatory operates:

• 6-inch FIST sponsored motorized refractor telescope (C-SKY automated)
• 9-inch motorized Celestron reflector telescope
• 12-inch manual Meade reflector telescope
• 16-inch motorized Meade reflector telescope
• NexImage 5 MP Solar System Imager (CCD camera) for imaging celestial objects

A major renovation of the observatory floor and interiors was completed in January 2024.

Goals

• To continue the study and training of astronomy with a focus on observational techniques.
• To host regular public events for viewing celestial objects and promote universe awareness through various presentations.
• To collaborate with schools and colleges for astronomy education development.

Team

The observatory is coordinated by Dr. Sanjeev Kalita, an expert in theoretical astrophysics and cosmology and a Fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society. Other prominent contributors include Dr. Biman J Medhi and a dynamic group of PhD students researching a range of topics from cosmology to astrobiology.

Technical support is provided by dedicated non-teaching staff members ensuring smooth observatory operations.

Public Outreach Highlights (2018-2024)

• Organized total lunar eclipse viewing (Jan 31, 2018) attended by parents, children, and students.
• Hosted partial solar eclipse viewing (Dec 26, 2019) with projection and telescope demonstrations.
• Jupiter-Saturn great conjunction (Dec 21, 2020) public viewing event with detailed celestial imaging.
• Citizen science programs involved students and amateurs classifying galaxies via Zooniverse platform.
• Planet and star viewing sessions regularly organized for university and local community, showcasing Jupiter, Saturn, Mars, Venus, and bright stars using advanced telescopes and imaging equipment.
• Hosted a successful Citizen Science Hackathon in July 2023 focused on galaxy identification and technosignature searches.

Future Aspirations

The observatory aims to acquire larger telescopes equipped with modern technologies to improve resolution and sensitivity. This will enhance scientific measurements and public awareness, strengthening the connection between science and society.