BANGKOK, Thailand – Bangkok’s “Starry Night over Bangkok 2024,” the largest stargazing event in Thailand, took place on the night of the closest Jupiter to Earth this year, December 7. The event, held at the Benjakitti Park Amphitheater in Klongtoey, was officiated by Mr. Ekwaranyu Amrapala, the spokesperson for Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA).
This event marks the second annual “Starry Night over Bangkok,” a collaboration between the National Astronomical Research Institute of Thailand (NARIT), BMA, and various related organizations. Mr. Amrapala emphasized that the initiative aligns with the city’s policy to make Bangkok a more livable city, with activities like these bringing color and creativity to public spaces. He highlighted the importance of providing learning opportunities for all ages, and stargazing in the heart of Bangkok was a prime example of this approach.
The “Starry Night over Bangkok 2024” event was a tremendous success in its second year, following a highly positive response from the public in its inaugural year. The collaboration between NARIT, BMA, and other public and private sector partners made this event the largest stargazing gathering in Thailand, held just once annually.
A special feature of this year’s event was the occurrence of “Jupiter’s closest approach to Earth of the year.” Attendees had the opportunity to view Jupiter through over 100 telescopes, where they could observe details such as its cloud bands, the Great Red Spot, and its four Galilean moons. The event also offered views of other celestial objects, including the Moon, Venus, Saturn, and Mars.
In addition to the stargazing, the event featured a range of engaging activities. These included taking photographs of the Moon, Saturn, and Jupiter with mobile phones, exploring constellations using the “NAPA” stargazing app, and learning about the night sky with the naked eye. Visitors could also take memorable photos with planetary balloons, explore constellations through a Stellar Light Box, and enjoy a “Glow in the Dark” experience. Talks such as “The Wonders of Jupiter” were also on offer.
Numerous public and private sector partners contributed to the evening’s festivities, including the “Night Nature Walk” to explore the city’s park at night, the “Space Journey,” and “Projection Mapping” shows.
Notable figures attending the event included Ms. Supamas Isarapakdee, Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research, and Innovation (MHESI), Robert F. Godec, U.S. Ambassador to Thailand, and Dr. Sarun Poshyachinda, Director of NARIT, alongside other dignitaries.
