1. What is Dark Matters Astronomical Observatory all about?

Dark Matters is nestled amidst a quiet hilltop boasting clear, dark skies and wild flora and fauna. At Dark Matters, it is our mission to cultivate an interest in Astronomy and inspire the next generation of astronomers by offering interactive programs for both children and adults. We offer a visual introduction to the night sky as well as projected observations of the sun, planets, stars, distant galaxies, and nebulae. With a combination of observations, lectures and videos, we hope to leave a lasting impression upon the minds of the future generation with a humbling, educational, liberating, and once-in-a-lifetime experience. This, we truly believe, will alter the way in which we think about ourselves and our place within our universe.

2. To which age group does the program cater to?

It is suitable for kids five and above. Even an eight-year-old has come up with tough questions during the one-hour lecture. Looking through the telescopes is a no brainer, it excites everyone, no matter the age.

3. Which is the nearest railway station? How to reach the observatory?

• You can drive your vehicle or hire a cab till the observatory.
• The nearest railway station is Asangaon. (Central Railway)
• Take a Kasara/Asangaon bound train. From Asangaon station take a bus or share a rickshaw to Shahapur bus stand. From Shahapur bus stand take a ST bus heading for Murbad or Kinhavali and get off at Narayangaon/Malegaon.
• Alternately hire an auto-rickshaw or a Jeep straight to the observatory. A 8-seater jeep will cost Rs. 600-650/- & 3-seater Auto will cost Rs. 400-500/- (one way).
• Please look up google maps for “Dark Matters Astronomical Observatory” for directions, pictures, and reviews. https://maps.app.goo.gl/Sn9oZynmJAp35tM39

5. Will transport be provided?

We don’t provide transport service, but we can assist in arranging a local cab or auto-rickshaw based on your needs. This cost is not included in the ₹2200 package and will be at your own expense.

6. What is cost per person?

The cost is ₹2200 for an adult. The cost for children 18 and under is ₹1700.

7. What about accommodation?

Our 1-acre complex offers different options such as AC dormitories, bunk beds, and tents based on availability. Clean washrooms with separate facilities for women and men, along with potable water, to ensure a comfortable stay.
Don’t equate this trip to a Lonavala holiday. You will not be indoors but having fun outdoors under the stars and you will be hitting the sack only when you are very sleepy or tired.
We do have tents if you are crazy about your privacy, but for an additional cost. 2-3 men tents will cost you Rs 500 & 4+men tents will cost you Rs 750.

8. What is included in ₹2200/₹1700?

The ₹2200/₹1700 package covers an overnight program with AC dorm accommodation (Shared), Private tents (at additional cost), evening tea, snacks, next-day morning tea, dinner and breakfast.

9. What about dinner?

For dinner we have a veg thali. It’s an authentic Maharashtrian-style vegetarian home-cooked food. Includes: Green Salad, Rice Bhakri, Wheat Chapatti, 2 vegetables (bhaaji – one dry & one with gravy), Dal, Rice, Limited Servings: Pickle, Papad & Sweet. Our vendor (local villager) also prepares Jain thali – but needs to be informed while booking.
We have stopped providing non-vegetarian food. You can bring your own dinner if you want but kindly inform us in advance, so your share of food is not wasted.

10. Any other amenities?

Please bring water bottles. We have water in plenty, except we don’t dish out plastic glasses. We do offer free Wi-Fi and parking facilities for your convenience.

11. How to book?

For booking, connect with us on WhatsApp/Call at 9029026622/33 or 8007878780. It’s advisable to book as soon as you pick your dates. We take 100% as booking amount in advance.

12. What about cancellations & refund?

If Event cancellation done by participant by any time 10% amount will be deducted.
If Event cancellation done by participant prior to 15 days of Event 80% of total price will be refunded.
If Event cancellation done by participant prior to 10 days of Event 60% of total price will be refunded.
If Event cancellation done by participant prior to 5 days of Event 50% of total price will be refunded.
After that (less than 5 days to event date) no refund will be provided on Event cancellation done by participant, irrespective even if you’ve booked within the last 5 days.
Event Tickets cannot be transferred to another date against cancellation.

13. What is the itinerary for the program?

5.00 pm Arrival at Dark Matters
5:00 pm to 6.00 pm Refreshments and a walk to the lake.
6:00 pm to 7:00 pm Lecture on Astronomy
7.00 pm Observation begins
Every object that we will show has been selected for that night and planned.
We have multiple-telescopes, some are dedicated for viewing and others are used to collect light from faint objects which will be projected onto the big screen.
9:00 pm to 10:00 pm Dinner break
10:00 pm Observation begins and continues past midnight.
8:00 to 9.30 am Viewing the Sun, Breakfast and departure.

14. Are Custom dates available?

If there are more than 10 adults, we can generally host the program for you on your preferred weekday dates.