Explore the Universe at AstroFest 2026 in Pimpri-Chinchwad
Four-day astronomy festival to feature sky-gazing, space demonstrations, workshops and expert talks
Pimpri-Chinchwad : Astronomy enthusiasts, students and families can explore the wonders of the universe at AstroFest 2026 – Aakashvedh 2026, a four-day astronomy and space science festival being organised at Pimpri Chinchwad Science Park and Planetarium from October 29 to November 1. The festival will remain open from 10 am to 8 pm daily.
Organised in association with IUCAA, Jyotirvidya Parisanstha, NCRA-TIFR and LIGO-India, the festival will feature a special exhibition themed “Exploring Astronomy, Inspiring Collaboration” under the BRICS India 2026 initiative. The event aims to promote scientific curiosity and make astronomy accessible to people of all ages.
Major attractions include astrophotography, sky-gazing sessions, an inflatable dome planetarium, live satellite demonstrations, water rocket demonstrations, aeromodelling workshops, 3D moon lamp making and a Mars rover obstacle challenge. Students can also participate in space-themed fancy dress competitions, astronomy art contests and quizzes.
The programme will feature expert lectures, science demonstrations, planetarium shows, cultural programmes and a science-fiction movie screening. Talks will include Dr. Margarita Safonova on comets on October 29, Dr. Sagar Gokhale on ancient astronomy on October 31, and Saurabh Salunkhe on LIGO-India and gravitational-wave research on November 1.
Modern Telescopes will showcase astronomical equipment during special sky-gazing sessions on October 31 and November 1. Additionally, Kalpakghar, in collaboration with the Science Park, IISER and Tata Technologies, will organise workshops and mathematical activities from October 30 to November 6.
The festival is being organised under the guidance of PCMC Commissioner Dr. Vijay Suryawanshi, who also chairs the Science Park. Pravin Tupe, Founder-Director, has invited students, parents and astronomy enthusiasts to participate. Dr. Shraddha Khamparia, CEO of the Science Park, is the chief coordinator.
