Editor’s note: Shenzhen is composed of nine administrative districts, one new area, and the Shenshan Special Cooperation Zone in Shanwei. While all 11 areas share Shenzhen’s defining spirit of innovation, each has its own unique characteristics. This page focuses on upcoming astronomical events in Dapeng New Area, a southeastern peninsula known for its harmonious blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and economic potential. 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. 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), “深圳市天文學會” (ID: astrohome), and “西涌暗夜天文館.” 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. ● 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 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. (Chen Siqi) Xichong, the first intl. dark sky community in China XICHONG, located in Dapeng New Area in southeastern Shenzhen, was officially recognized as China’s first International Dark Sky Community by DarkSky International on April 5, 2023. The Xichong International Dark Sky Community covers an area of approximately 10.9 square kilometers. The community is about 60 kilometers away from the city’s urban center. The forest coverage of the community reaches 90%, with rich animal and plant resources. The community includes the Shenzhen Astronomical Observatory, Xichong Beach, and eight villages with about 2,500 villagers. The area is surrounded by mountains on three sides and the sea on another. It is well-shielded from urban light pollution, which allows visitors to view and take beautiful photos of the night sky and stars. Xichong has become a well-known stargazing spot in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. (SD News) | 