The Oasis English Press sat down with Neal Bhatt, the Oasis Coordinator of the Astro Club, to discuss the club’s activities and plans for the fest.

Neal explained that the members of the club were enthusiasts who met weekly on the FD-III terrace. He stated that the club was organising three major events and one online event during Oasis. Their flagship event was Night’s Watch, during which the club’s terrace would be opened to all BITSians and outside guests for the night. Neal elaborated that the event would feature a guided tour of the night sky using laser pointers and binoculars. He explained that it would also include an astrophotography booth where attendees could try light painting and learn about astrophotography. He added that visitors would also be able to view celestial objects using the club’s telescopes. 

He further explained that the Night’s Watch remained largely unchanged from previous editions because of positive feedback from attendees, and the club members found it fun to conduct. According to Neal, in order to engage the crowds, shows like Gravity Falls, Rick and Morty, and others would be screened.

The club’s other events included Quizzar, a sci-fi pop culture quiz, and Everyone Dies. Quizzar is conducted in a standard quiz format with a quiz master and is centered around pop-culture astronomy. The latter is a writing contest where participants are presented with various scenarios wherein they have to devise creative ways to cause maximum destruction.

In the week leading up to the fest, Neal mentioned that the club’s preparations were on track. Members were rehearsing the guided tour and undergoing telescope training. The questions for Quizzar and Everyone Dies were almost finalised.

Reflecting on his experience as Coordinator, Neal noted that he faced expected difficulties but was used to them. He acknowledged that the responsibility was a hassle, but he enjoyed the role regardless.