THE 4th Greater Bay Area Astronomy and Technology Festival is set to take place from Aug. 8 to 10 in the Xichong International Dark Sky Community. A celebration of astronomical science and tourism, the Xichong Dark Sky Planetarium will serve as its main venue and the Shenzhen Observatory its subvenue.

The starry sky over the Shenzhen Astronomical Observatory in Xichong, Dapeng New District, in this undated file photo.Xinhua

Those interested in attending must pre-register online. The registration link is available through 5 p.m. Aug. 7 via the official WeChat accounts of “深圳天文” (ID: shenzhentianwen), “深圳市天文学会” (ID: astrohome), and “西涌暗夜天文馆.”

Upon arrival, participants must check in at the main planetarium venue to receive a wristband, which will grant access to the Shenzhen Astronomical Observatory subvenue for the day.

Highlights of the festival

● Astrophotography and dark sky exhibition: A curated collection of stunning astrophotography and images of the Xichong International Dark Sky Community will be on display. The exhibition aims to underscore the importance of preserving the natural night sky.

Time: 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Aug. 8-10

Location: Xichong Dark Sky Planetarium

● Expert talks and presentations: Scientists from the observatory and renowned astrophotographers from across the country will host a series of lectures and sharing sessions. Due to limited space, on-site registration is on a first-come, first-served basis.

Time: Four sessions at 10 a.m., 11 a.m., 3 p.m., and 4 p.m., Aug. 9

Location: Xichong Dark Sky Planetarium

● Solar observation and sunspot sketching: During the day, two solar telescopes will be set up for public use. Participants can observe sunspots and engage in scientific sketching. Visitors may bring their own solar viewer card or purchase a customized card at the venue.

Time: 10-11:30 a.m. and 2:30-4:30 p.m., Aug. 8-10

Location: Xichong Dark Sky Planetarium

● Stargazing: Weather permitting, evening astronomical observation sessions will be held, featuring activities such as moon observation and photography of constellations.

Time: From 7:30 p.m. Aug. 9

Participation: Free, with on-site registration required at the Xichong Dark Sky Planetarium.

An expert speaks at a sharing session on astronomy in Dapeng. Courtesy of iDapeng WeChat account

● Enjoying the “Ocean of Stars”: Coinciding with the Perseid meteor shower, the Shenzhen Astronomical Society will host a special beachside meteor-watching event.

Time: 8-10 p.m., Aug. 8-9

Location: Xichong Dark Sky Planetarium & Xichong Beach

Participation: Paid, with on-site registration at the planetarium.

● Interactive experiences: Attendees can enjoy a range of interactive activities, including VR astronomy experiences, a challenge for souvenirs, stamp collecting, and knowledge quizzes across the planetarium, observatory, and other community locations.

Time: 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Aug. 8-10

Location: Xichong Dark Sky Planetarium

● Astronomy equipment and gear exhibition: The festival is supported by leading manufacturers of optical imaging devices, professional astronomical instruments, and outdoor equipment. These companies will offer hands-on experiences and insights into the latest technology for astronomical observation and photography.

Time: 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Aug. 8-10

Location: Shenzhen Astronomical Observatory

Participants use solar telescopes to observe sunspots in Dapeng. Courtesy of iDapeng WeChat account

Travel and transport information

Attendees are encouraged to use public transport.

By Bus: Upon arriving in Dapeng, take Bus No. M232 to Xichong Beach No. 2. Alternatively, take Bus No. T40B from Huangbeiling Metro Station 3 to Xichong Beach No. 2.

By Car: Navigate to the Xichong Dark Sky Planetarium. Parking will be available opposite the planetarium.

A dedicated shuttle service will operate between the Planetarium and the Observatory.

After receiving wristbands, attendees can take a special bus from the south gate of the planetarium to the No. 4 entrance of Xichong Beach and then transfer to a local Xichong shuttle to reach the Observatory. Those who drive can park at the P7 car park near the No. 4 entrance of Xichong Beach and take the shuttle.

Please note: All observation activities are subject to weather conditions and may be canceled. Please pay attention to on-site announcements.