India’s largest public observatory in Bhuj at Regional Science Centre (RSC) was inaugurated on December 25, 2024. The observatory has attracted over 1,500 visitors in just 30 days at RSC Bhuj.

The observatory marks a significant milestone in advancing space science education in India and the public's growing interest in space exploration.

The Regional Science Centre (RSC) Bhuj is an initiative by Gujarat Council on Science and Technology (GUJCOST) under the Department of Science and Technology, Government of Gujarat. 

Bhuj observatory: Gateway to the cosmos

RSC inauguration by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on August 28, 2022, attractions like the Marine Navigation Simulator, Submarine Simulator, and 3D movies have drawn 2.04 lakh visitors, including school students.

Beyond the observatory, RSC Bhuj boasts six captivating science-themed galleries, including Marine Navigation, Energy Science, Fields Medal, Bonsai, Nanotechnology, and Space Science.

The newly inaugurated observatory is equipped with a 24-inch telescope, allowing visitors to witness  celestial phenomena such as nebulae, planets, and distant galaxies. 

Operating from 6 pm to 9 pm, the observatory charges a fee of ₹20 for students and ₹30 for other visitors. It offers astronomy-based educational programs, interactive sessions, and modules aligned with the school curriculum.

The facility’s location in Bhuj, known for minimal light pollution, further enhances the stargazing experience, making it a prime destination for astronomy enthusiasts and researchers. The observatory’s advanced Corrected Dall-Kirkham telescope ensures precision in observations, making it ideal for astro-tourism and astrophotography.