Q1. What is the purpose of ARIES outreach program?
We wish to open the window of astronomy and astrophysics for general public in general and students in particular. We think students are the future scientist, so timely introduction of this field for an interested one is very important. After all there are many excitements in probing the universe, which not only enhance sphere of thinking of an individual, but also fulfill one's desire for knowledge.
Q2. Is visiting ARIES open to all? Are you allowing the visitor at currect time to visit ARIES?
Yes visiting ARIES is open to all. Due to the pandemic situation, at a time only small groups mainiting COVID-19 appropriate behaviour will be permitted for the visit.
Q3. What procedure we shall follow for visiting ARIES?
Please visit http://www.aries.res.in/outreach. Click on fill on-line application form for which advance booking at the most upto one month is allowed. Once submitted, someone from ARIES Science Popularisation and Outreach Programme (ASPOP) team will contact you on your given email ID, for confirmation. Please make sure to fill all the column and correct email ID.
Q4. Do we always need prior arrangement to visit ARIES?
At present yes.
Q5. Can we visit ARIES any time?
For general visitors the preferable time is 2:30-4.30 pm for seeing the observatory and general Q&As. If the group consists of 10 or more students, a scientist can deliver a popular lecture as well, for which the preferable time slots are 10:00-12:00 and 2:30-4.30 pm.
Q6. If we visit in evening time will there be sky show possible for us?
Subject to clear weather and ONLY with prior permission, sky shows (looking at celestial objects through a telescope) are available at ARIES and open to all. A small telescope is available in our science centre for public viewing.
Q7. Our group of student wish to visit observatory. Is it possible for you to make travel arrangements from railways station?
At present we do not have administrative support for this purpose, so will be unable to do it. However following travel agents number at Nainital may be of help. (i) 09412084052 Nayana travel (ii) 09837253263 (local at Nainital) etc
Q8. Is there any email contact?
Application for appointments will be accepted through the online form at https://www.aries.res.in/outreach/visitrequest only. Kindly fill up the form and we will contact you within a few days. In case you don't hear from us even few days after filling up the online form, you can write to us on outreach@aries.res.in for further queries.