Atish Aman
Astrophotographer, Science Educator, and Cosmic Storyteller
Atish Aman is an acclaimed astrophotographer, science educator, and passionate advocate for astronomy who has made it his life’s mission to bring the awe and wonder of the universe to people from all walks of life. A self-taught artist of the night sky and a relentless science communicator, Atish has emerged as one of India’s most recognized faces in the world of astronomy outreach and public science education.
Through his breathtaking images of celestial events — from lunar eclipses and meteor showers to star trails and deep-sky nebulae — Atish invites viewers to pause, reflect, and reconnect with the vast cosmos that surrounds us. His work is not only a visual feast but also a bridge between complex science and public imagination, making astronomical phenomena accessible and inspiring.
A Journey from Curiosity to Mastery: Following the Light of the Stars
Born with an innate curiosity about the night sky, Atish Aman’s story is one of passion, perseverance, and a deep-rooted love for science. Like many children fascinated by the stars, he would spend hours gazing at the moon and constellations, wondering about distant worlds. But what set him apart was his resolve to transform that childhood wonder into a lifelong pursuit.
Without formal institutional training in astronomy, Atish embarked on a self-driven quest to master the art of astrophotography. Over the years, he taught himself the intricacies of telescopes, cameras, tracking mounts, optics, and image processing techniques, transforming raw night sky data into ethereal cosmic portraits.
His path was never easy — navigating technical challenges, limited access to equipment, and the difficulties of sky watching in urban environments — but Atish’s unwavering dedication to his craft has led him to become a respected name among India’s growing community of astrophotographers and space science educators.
Astrophotographer with a Story to Tell
Atish Aman’s astrophotography stands out not just for its stunning visuals but for the narratives it carries. Each photograph is a carefully crafted story, revealing the delicate dance of planets, the mesmerising glow of distant galaxies, and the transience of meteor showers.
Whether capturing the vivid hues of a total lunar eclipse, the glimmering expanse of the Milky Way arching over remote Indian landscapes, or the rare alignment of planets at dawn, Atish’s work emphasizes the beauty and fragility of our place in the cosmos. His images have been widely circulated on social media, national publications, astronomy magazines, and international space forums, garnering admiration for their artistry and scientific precision.
Science Educator: Bringing the Universe Closer to the People
Beyond his photography, Atish is a dedicated science educator and public speaker, working tirelessly to democratize access to astronomy education. He regularly conducts:
- Night Sky Observation Programs for schools, colleges, and general audiences
- Astrophotography workshops, helping amateurs learn how to capture the cosmos
- Science communication seminars, explaining complex astronomical events in simple, relatable language
- Collaborations with planetariums, science centres, and NGOs, bringing astronomy to under-served communities
Atish believes that astronomy belongs to everyone — and he works actively to break down the barriers that prevent people, especially young students from rural and under-resourced backgrounds, from engaging with the night sky. His efforts have inspired many first-time stargazers and young enthusiasts to pursue astronomy as a hobby and, in some cases, a career.
He has been working on a series since 2008 that captures the night sky juxtaposed with India’s rich heritage sites. This project aims to blend celestial wonders with terrestrial landmarks, offering a unique perspective on the country’s cultural and astronomical heritage.
Highlights from the Series:
- Sanchi Stupa and Star Trails: Atish captured mesmerising star trails above the Sanchi Stupa, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Madhya Pradesh. This photograph showcases the harmonious blend of ancient architecture and the timeless night sky.
- Sarnath Stupa and the Moon: In this composition, the Sarnath Stupa is beautifully framed under the glow of the moon, highlighting the serene connection between the monument and the celestial body.
- Surkanda Devi Temple and Comet C/2023 A3: Atish meticulously planned and executed a shot of Comet C/2023 A3 passing over the Surkanda Devi Temple, demonstrating his dedication to capturing transient celestial events alongside enduring earthly structures.
Through this series, Atish Aman not only showcases the beauty of the night sky but also emphasises the deep-rooted connection between India’s cultural landmarks and the cosmos, inspiring viewers to appreciate both the heavens and the heritage around them.
Public Engagement and Media Recognition
Atish Aman has been interviewed by leading print and electronic media, including features on science television shows, podcasts, and YouTube channels dedicated to space and education. His work has been highlighted during significant astronomical events, such as supermoons, eclipses, and meteor showers, where he has offered live commentaries, public Q&A sessions, and media briefings.
Notable appearances include:
- Public talks during National Science Day and World Space Week events
- Panel discussions on the role of citizen science in astronomy
- Interactive sessions on Doordarshan and All India Radio about the importance of astronomy education
- Collaborations with Rajya Sabha TV for educational segments on celestial phenomena
Through these platforms, Atish continues to amplify the importance of science communication, reminding people of the essential role astronomy plays in nurturing curiosity and critical thinking.
Awards, Exhibitions, and Recognition
- Photography Exhibitions: His astrophotography works have been showcased in science festivals, museums, and public galleries, receiving widespread appreciation.
- Awards: He has been honoured by amateur astronomy societies and recognised by educational institutions for his contributions to science outreach.
- Space and Science Journals: His images and essays have been published in astronomy magazines, science blogs, and educational materials.
Inspiring a Cosmic Perspective
At the core of Atish Aman’s work is a profound belief:
“Looking up at the stars reminds us that we are part of something vast, beautiful, and mysterious. Astronomy teaches us humility, curiosity, and wonder — things we need now more than ever.”
Through his lens and his words, Atish continues to inspire countless people to rediscover their connection with the cosmos — a connection that transcends boundaries of geography, language, and culture.
Award-Winning Astrophotographs:
Comet ISON Over Pokhara City, Nepal (2013): Atish’s remarkable photograph of Comet ISON gracing the skies above Pokhara City, Nepal, clinched first place in the “Cameras and Tripods” category. This image was featured in CBS News’ compilation of the comet’s final appearances.
Venus Transit at Victory Tower: This stunning capture showcases the planet Venus transiting across the sun, framed by the historic Victory Tower. The photograph was featured in Sky & Telescope’s online gallery, highlighting Atish’s ability to blend celestial events with terrestrial landmarks.
Notable Astrophotographs:
Milky Way Over Haldwani City: Atish’s photograph of the Milky Way arching gracefully over Haldwani City exemplifies his talent in capturing the grandeur of our galaxy juxtaposed against urban landscapes.
Star Trails in the Himalayas: This mesmerising image depicts circular star trails above the Himalayan peaks, illustrating the Earth’s rotation and the timeless beauty of the night sky.
Educational Contributions:
Beyond his photographic achievements, Atish is deeply committed to sharing his expertise. He conducts astrophotography workshops, guiding enthusiasts in capturing the night sky’s splendour. His recent master class in Kausani, Uttarakhand, was highlighted on platforms like Instagram, emphasizing his role as an educator.
Through his award-winning work and educational initiatives, Atish Aman continues to inspire a deeper appreciation for the universe, blending art and science to illuminate the wonders above.
Co-founder, Cosmic Trails
email: [email protected]
