The Sky Explorers Festival, organized annually by SINA since 2013 in Iran, is a unique educational initiative that blends environmental engagement with experiential astronomy learning. Developed to inspire curiosity about the universe while strengthening students’ connection with nature, the festival brings participants together in small, collaborative groups for a full day and night of immersive outdoor activities. This structure not only enriches their scientific understanding but also supports personal growth and social development.

The program begins in the afternoon as students arrive at the natural site and familiarize themselves with the environment. Before sunset, participants construct simple, hand-made astronomical tools—such as star wheels or basic angle-measuring devices—which they later use during guided nighttime observations. Creating these tools themselves promotes creativity, problem-solving, and a practical grasp of core astronomical concepts.

After nightfall, the festival shifts to its central educational component. Students are introduced to observational astronomy, including constellation identification, celestial motion, and the cultural and scientific relevance of the night sky. Under the guidance of trained instructors, they observe planets, nebulae, star clusters, and other deep-sky objects using telescopes. These direct observational experiences reinforce theoretical knowledge while cultivating a sense of wonder and an appreciation for natural darkness, increasingly endangered by global light pollution.

Complementing the scientific components, the festival includes group games, cooperative tasks, and overnight camping. These activities foster teamwork, communication, resilience, and social interaction, allowing students to develop key interpersonal skills in a supportive outdoor environment. Spending the night in nature also deepens their environmental awareness and highlights the ecological dimension of astronomy.