Overview
Unlock the wonders of the night sky with Nisargshala’s stargazing Expert Certification Course, a comprehensive hybrid training program designed for astronomy enthusiasts worldwide. This unique course combines immersive online stargazing classes with a hands-on 3-night practical camp at Nisargshala, Pune, empowering you to become a confident and knowledgeable certified astronomy guide.
Our course covers modern astronomical science, practical telescope skills, night sky navigation, and classical Indian astronomy — providing a rich, culturally grounded learning experience.
Who Should Enroll?
This course is ideal for:
- Trek leaders and adventure guides seeking to enhance their service portfolio
- Travel guides and tourism operators wanting to offer unique night sky experiences
- Resort, homestay, and farmstay owners aiming to attract astro-tourism clientele
- Educators and nature enthusiasts passionate about astronomy education
- Anyone interested in starting a career in astro-tourism, stargazing guiding, or astronomy education
Course Highlights
- Duration: 2 months (16 online sessions) + 3-night immersive camp
- Format: Instructor-led live online classes + hands-on practical training
- Curriculum: Astronomy fundamentals, telescope handling, night sky observation, stellar & solar system science, classical Indian astronomy, teaching pedagogy
- Expert Mentorship: Learn from experienced astronomy educators and guides
- Certification: Recognized Nisargshala Certified Stargazing Guide certificate for career advancement
Why Choose Nisargshala’s Stargazing Guide Program?
- Completion certificate boosting your credibility as a professional guide
- Balanced theory and much-needed practical experience under dark skies
- Opportunity to connect with a global community of astronomy enthusiasts
- Flexible online learning with recorded sessions for convenience
- Specialized sessions on Indian classical astronomy and cultural astronomy
- Dedicated modules on communication and educational skills for effective guidance
Career Opportunities
Become a skilled astronomy guide and unlock multiple career pathways including:
- Conducting stargazing sessions at Nisargshala and partner camps
- Collaborating with travel and tourism businesses offering astro-tourism packages
- Providing astronomy education in schools, community centers, and corporate workshops
- Establishing yourself as an independent astronomy guide or consultant
- Enhancing your hospitality or adventure business with specialized astronomy experiences
Expected earning potential ranges from ₹1,500 to ₹3,000 per session, with options for full-time roles and entrepreneurial growth.
Enrollment Details
- Global open enrollment – no prior astronomy knowledge required
- Limited seats to ensure personalized mentoring and quality training
- Flexible payment options with early bird, group, student, and alumni discounts available
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Who is this course designed for?
This course is perfect for astronomy enthusiasts, trek leaders, travel guides, resort and homestay owners, educators, and anyone interested in becoming a professional stargazing guide or developing astro-tourism services.
Q2: Do I need prior astronomy knowledge to enroll?
No prior astronomy knowledge is required. The course starts with foundational concepts and progressively advances to professional guide skills.
Q3: What is the format and duration of the course?
The course is 2 months long with twice-weekly live online sessions followed by a 3-night in-person immersive camp at Nisargshala for hands-on experience.
Q4: Is this course open to international participants?
Yes, the online component is fully accessible globally. The offline camp is held in Pune, India, and participants arrange travel independently.
Q5: What equipment is needed?
Participants need a laptop or tablet/a mobile device for online sessions. Telescopes, binoculars, and other equipment are provided during the camp.
Q6: Will I receive certification?
Yes, successful participants receive the Nisargshala Certified Astronomy Guide certificate, valid for 3 years with renewal options.
Q7: What career opportunities does this course open?
Graduates can lead stargazing sessions at camps, work with tourism operators, teach astronomy, or build independent astronomy guiding services.
Q8: How is the course assessed?
Assessment is based on online participation, assignments, practical camp skills, teaching demonstrations, and professionalism.
Q9: What is the fee and payment structure?
The total fee is ₹24,000, payable upfront or in two installments. Early bird, group, student, and alumni discounts are available.
Q10: What if I miss a live online session?
All sessions are recorded and accessible later; however, live participation is recommended for interaction and support.