Thanks to its affiliation with the International Association of Physics Students (IAPS), the club opens its doors to the international scientific community. (Credit: Photo Astronomy Club)
"The club's goal is to make astronomy accessible to everyone. It's a place where those passionate about astronomy and physics come together, and where science is lived, shared, and experienced," says Rita Hochar, 20, a senior physics student and club president.
Under her leadership, the club invites students from all disciplines to dive into the fascinating universe of astronomy — not just as science, but as an art of observation and discovery.
Thanks to its affiliation with the International Association of Physics Students (IAPS), the club, which now has 160 members, opens its doors to the international scientific community. "This connection allows us to share our passion for astronomy with people of all ages and backgrounds, while offering professional opportunities," the president explains.
The club's activities are distinguished by their diversity. Highlights include blood moon observation nights, planetary observation evenings during which participants admired Saturn, Jupiter, and Mars using one of the largest research telescopes in Lebanon, according to the president. She adds: "The public observation event in May, open to everyone, brought together curious people of all ages and was one of the club's most successful events in years."
"It all started with meetings among people sharing the same curiosity for space and its mysteries, attending inspiring seminars and conferences led by astrophysicists and physicists, as well as outreach activities that brought astronomy closer to the general public," says David Atanalian, 20, vice president and physics student, adding: "Being part of the Astronomy Club has been an experience that has accompanied me since the beginning of my studies and continues to enrich me today."
The club doesn't stop there. "We are preparing astrophotography projects where participants will learn to capture the beauty of the night sky with professional equipment, as well as other initiatives aimed at raising public awareness about the science of the stars," says the president.
Challenges... but a passion stronger than anything
Watching the sky isn't always simple, admits the club president. "The weather, cloud cover, humidity, lunar phase or the position of the planets can turn an observation evening into a real logistical headache." But for her, one challenge persists: changing perceptions of astronomy. "Many associate astronomy exclusively with physics. Yet astronomy is also about learning to observe, describe, and contemplate. It can mean watching the sky, identifying stars, planets, and constellations, or simply appreciating their patterns. That's why the club strives to break down barriers and make astronomy accessible to everyone, regardless of age or background."
This philosophy is reflected in the club's strong connection to society. Thanks to school workshops, outreach programs, and public stargazing events, the NDU Astronomy Club spreads science far beyond the campus. "Former members who have gone professional regularly return to share their experiences, further strengthening the club's social and educational impact," adds the president.
The club's impact is already being felt. "In the future, the club will continue shaping society by encouraging scientific curiosity, creating a community passionate about discovery, and equipping students with technical and communication skills that go far beyond astronomy."
Rare experiences, especially in Lebanon
"Thanks to the club, I've not only deepened my understanding of the stars and the vast world of astrophysics, but also forged strong bonds and lasting friendships," says the vice president. He adds: "Organizing and leading observation nights, coordinating events, and giving presentations on behalf of the club helped me build essential skills like communication, teamwork, and leadership. Every event was a chance to share knowledge and create unforgettable moments."
"Being club president has been one of the most enriching experiences of my life. This club has allowed me to grow, to collaborate, and above all, to dream bigger," says Hochar. She recalls the club's participation in the NASA Space Apps Challenge, a global hackathon where her team won three consecutive times. The adventure taught her discipline, teamwork, and the beauty of collaborative research. Through the club, she also honed her communication skills, learned to simplify complex concepts, and got the rare chance to use one of the country's largest research telescopes. But what she'll remember most is the feeling of belonging. "Here, we share more than a scientific interest: we share a common passion and limitless curiosity."
"This journey has deeply marked me. It made me realize how important it is to contribute to initiatives where such experiences are rare, especially in Lebanon. But our club fills that gap with passion and dedication. As I say this, I feel a great sense of pride in saying the Astronomy Club is not just a club, but above all a community — a family," concludes Atanalian.
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