ASTROPHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP

Kids Astrophotography Workshop at Observatoire François-Xavier Bagnoud

Explore the Universe in your own private observatory
📍Observatoire François-Xavier Bagnoud
- 7th Mars 2025
With Photographer Melody Sky & Astrophysicist José Rodriguez

Join us for an exciting night of astrophotography and deep-space exploration at the Observatoire François-Xavier Bagnoud, where the dark skies are deep in a blanket of stars! Guided by José, an astrophysicist specialising in exoplanets and deep space, you'll embark on a journey through the cosmos, learning about the wonders of the night sky while capturing its beauty with a camera or even just an iPhone.

Itinerary

6PM Arrival at the funicular at St Luc

Take the funicular up to the observatory. There will be one ride up on the train. Passes are available at CHF16 for adults and CHF6 for children. Holders of the Magic Pass have free entry to the funicular.
After arrival at the observatory, we will have a brief gear check. There will be equipment available for those who do not have their own cameras. Once prepared for photographing the stars we will take a short break.
6.30PM Crepes and snacks: Share some dinner during a presentation by Jose. Learn what’s visible tonight, from planets and star clusters to distant galaxies!

Introduction to astrophotography. We will share settings, tips and tricks for astro photography using both DSLR, Mirrorless and iPhone cameras.
The group will split into two with one group experimenting with photographing the night sky and the other group will observe the planets through the observatory’s telescope.

Workshop ends by 10PM, descent down via the funicular train.

Equipment

The following equipment is recommended. We will have a selection of cameras and lenses for you to try out if you do n ot have your own. .

A DSLR/mirrorless camera body with at least one lens
A wide-angle lens + a zoom lens are recommended
A tripod
Remote shutter release cable
Spare batteries (where possible) + charger
Cards for your camera

Location

Observatoire François-Xavier Bagnoud

Observatory elevation: 2,200m

Temperatures to expect at 2,200m in March:
At the observatory in St Luc at 2,200m, during the winter season the weather can vary but in general you have to be prepared for colder temperatures. During the evening it could drop as low as -5C. So warm clothes for the evening on the roof of the observatory is recommended to be able to stay outdoors as long as you want to photograph.

Mountain weather can also be unpredictable, with sudden changes, including wind or snow. It's essential to be well prepared, with appropriate layers, including waterproof and windproof outer layers, and equally protection from the sun, which can be surprisingly strong at altitude, even when temperatures are colder.

Getting there: Drive to St-Luc in the Val d'Anniviers region. There is parking available near the Tignousa Funicular station.

Meet the team