About Us
Created and run by amateur astronomers, Starscapes aspires to provide a holistic offering that any astronomer would love. Stare at the skies through the telescopes in our observatories. Take a trip to the constellations with our astronomy tours. Learn about advances in astrophysics and space exploration through our workshops and online discussions with experts. See the universe differently through your camera lens at our astrophotography sessions.
In this journey, all you need to bring along, is curiosity. Starscapes will be your uplink to the stars, your platform to the skies.
Your gateway to the Universe.
About Starscapes
EXPLORE THE UNIVERSE
Ever since we were children, we have looked up at the vast expanse of the cosmos, and marveled at the magic of what lies beyond. Imagine finding a platform that helps rediscover this moment, and experience the awe-inspiring enormity and complexity of the universe, while standing on this little rock called Earth.
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IN PRESS
OUR TEAM
THE AMATEUR ASTRONOMERS BEHIND STARSCAPES
RAMASHISH RAY
FOUNDER
A published photographer and an astronomy enthusiast, Ramashish Ray started Starscapes in 2015 with an observatory in Kausani. Having spent over 25 years at the regional and global helm of corporate giants such as Nokia and Samsung, Ramashish continues to pursue his passion with photography today while at the same time driving other businesses in the fields of electronics, mobiles and smart devices.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/ramashishraycooapac
AMITABH PANDEY
MENTOR
Amitabh Pandey, ex-founder of SPACE, is an influential figure in the field of astronomy education and space science, notably for his efforts in weaving these disciplines into the fabric of Indian school education. Born on September 7, 1957, Pandey’s educational journey is marked by a B.Sc. degree acquired in 1975 and Bachelor of Fine Arts from M.S. University Baroda, earned in 1986. A writer, well known educationist, avid speaker in the media. He has been an advisor to the Bihar state government for the project of the Astronomy Centre at sites of ancient Aryabhata Observatories since 2012. He is a mentor and the guiding force behind Starscapes experiences foray and growth. STARSCAPES is India’s first private observatory chain.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/amitabh-pandey-1808551a/
SMRITI MAHAJAN
Director, Educational Partnerships
Dr. Smriti Mahajan is an astrophysicist with over 17 years of experience in academic research, teaching, and science communication. She holds a PhD in Astronomy and Astrophysics from the University of Birmingham, UK, and has worked extensively in the USA, Australia, and India, contributing to both academia and public engagement in astronomy.
www.linkedin.com/in/drsmritimahajan
PURAN PANDEY
Founding Member
Is one of the founding team members and the first and foremost of Starguides . A Kumaoni born and bred in the Himalayas he has always been close to nature and its culture. He brings him a unique blend to the profession and is today a master trainer and guiding light for all the team
KUNAL WADHAWAN
Advisor
As an Advisor to Starscapes, he plays a key role in shaping the company’s product vision and long-term strategic direction. Drawing on his multifaceted leadership experience, he provides guidance on product innovation and cross-functional initiatives that align with Starscapes’ mission to popularise astronomy experiences everywhere.
A passionate educator who loves building models and products, he is constantly exploring ways to make science engaging and accessible. With over a decade of hands-on experience, he continues to mentor the team on product development and leads the conceptualisation of STEM activities across the organisation.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kunal-wadhawan-1b0938188
DEBASHISH DAS
Data Analysis Manager
As a Data Analysis Manager, I am passionate about transforming complex data into clear, actionable insights that drive smart decision-making. I thrive on planning, analyzing, and designing data-driven strategies that not only solve problems but also unlock new opportunities for growth.
What excites me the most is helping teams and individuals understand the “why” behind their work. By combining a love for learning with a deep curiosity for patterns in data, I aim to create systems that are efficient, insightful, and impactful.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/debashishadas40
HEM SHARMA
Business Manager
I am Hem Sharma, a 32-year-old education professional with over a decade of experience across schools, NGOs, and observatories. Currently serving as Trainer and Field Operations Manager at Starscapes Experiences Pvt. Ltd., I specialize in education and social impact, with a strong passion for teaching, training, and thought leadership.
KASTURI DAS
Growth and Business Development
With a background in Hospitality Administration under the Ministry of Tourism, Kasturi brings deep expertise in guest engagement and experiential service. As the Business Development Manager for the East Region at Starscapes, she leads strategic growth, builds key partnerships, and helps create unforgettable stargazing experiences rooted in storytelling and personal connection.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kasturi-das-514a791b1
PIYUSH POKHARIA
Lead - Customer Satisfaction
With a deep-rooted background in hospitality and guest experience, Piyush brings a unique blend of empathy and operational excellence to Starscapes. Having led teams in hotels and now at the forefront of customer engagement in experiential astronomy, he is passionate about creating memorable and meaningful moments for every guest. His focus lies in building strong connections, nurturing teams, and ensuring every interaction reflects Starscapes’ commitment to being a gracious host under the stars.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/piyush-pokharia-35781b1a0
