SPACE has come up with the concept of Astro-Tourism, a novel concept that combines fun, adventure and learning. Tourists are invited to travel, explore and delve into the intriguing and exciting world of astronomy and space science.

Experience the thrill of astronomy
Have you ever looked up at the sky and wondered at its vastness, the glittering stars and planets? Astro-tourism offers travelers the unique opportunity to satisfy their curiosity and learn truths about the mysterious skies above us.

SPACE's astro-tourism packages works as stress busters for corporate members, a chance to combine leisure, learning and togetherness for families and groups. Tourists can enjoy fun-filled and interesting astronomy related activities; even watch a total solar eclipse.

Excursions organized by SPACE
SPACE has organized excursions that have been extremely successful with Indian and international communities. Of special mentions are:

India’s first Eclipse Cruise
SPACE partnered with Louis Cruises, India to take a group of 650 astronomy enthusiasts on a round trip from Kochi to Maldives, aboard the luxury liner Aquamarine, to view the Annular Solar Eclipse on January 15, 2010. The fun filled trip was a journey in itself with star parties, expert navigational tips and luxurious amenities.

This historical event makes SPACE the first company in India to organize eclipse watches on the earth, sky and water.

India's first ever Eclipse Passenger Flight
SPACE got together eclipse enthusiasts from across the world to view the total solar eclipse from up close on July 22, 2009. A 737-700 Boeing flew a team of tourists 41,000 feet into the sky, from New Delhi to Patna, to get a view of the magnificent diamond ring.

SPACE was also the first company in India to take a student delegation to Turkey to watch the total solar eclipse in March, 2006. This was the beginning of many more expeditions to come — Russia in 2008, and Indonesia and China in 2009.
SPACE has an agreement with the Ministry of Tourism, Himachal Pradesh (through its arm HPTDC) to promote Astro-Tourism in the state and promote it as a destination for global travelers.

Astro-tourism packages
SPACE offers a variety of astro-tourism packages to suit individuals, families, groups, schools, institutions and corporate groups. We can help you come up with the perfect blend of active tourism and astronomy based events so that you enjoy an exciting, yet leisurely holiday. SPACE offers attractive national and international tour packages. We have tied-up with travel companies, national and international government agencies, scientific institutions, space agencies and observatories to make this expedition the most memorable holiday of your life.

Astro-tourism packages include:

• Space Camps (visits to NASA and other space agencies)
• Observatory Study Tours (in India and abroad)
• Holiday Programs
• Star parties (tourists are invited to dress as scientists and discoverers)
• Workshops (astrophotography, telescope making, etc.)
• Fun science games and activities
• Life skills and stress management packages

Please email astrotourism@stepl.org to know more. We will tailor the package to your requirements and make sure you have an unforgettable experience.