News | A Parade of Stars in Bornova

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A Parade of Stars in Bornova

15 August 2026

Sky Enthusiasts Meet Under the Telescope

Bornova Municipality is moving its “Sky Observation with Telescopes” events, which began at Aşık Veysel Recreation Area, to Yeşilova Mound, where history and science come together. During the observation nights, which have attracted great interest from Bornova residents of all ages, the mysteries of the sky are being explored with the guidance of experts.

The series of Sky Observation events, organized by the Bornova Municipality Mevlana Community and Science Center, began at Aşık Veysel Recreation Area. The major event will return to the same location on August 27, bringing Bornova residents together once again. One of the most special stops on the program, however, will be Yeşilova Mound, İzmir’s prehistoric settlement.

Looking to the Sky in the Footsteps of the Past

The “Science Talks & Sky Observation with Telescopes” event will take place at Yeşilova Mound on August 19, from 21:00 to 00:30. Participants will have the opportunity to experience the atmosphere of a site with thousands of years of history while also exploring the universe through modern telescopes.

“We Will Explore the Universe Beneath an 8,500-Year-Old Heritage”

Event coordinator and astronomer Dr. Tuncay Doğan invited all Bornova residents to this unique scientific journey, saying:

“We are delighted to bring astronomy out of the four walls and together with our community, especially with our children, who are our future. We are now bringing the wonderful energy we created at Aşık Veysel Recreation Area to Yeşilova Mound, İzmir’s oldest known settlement. The people who lived on these lands 8,500 years ago also looked up at the very same sky. On the night of August 19, we will both commemorate this deep-rooted history and observe the Moon, planets and star clusters through the lens of modern science. I invite residents of all ages who are curious about science, space and discovery to join us at our telescopes and share in this great excitement.”

“Seeing Venus Was Incredible!”

Among the hundreds of Bornova residents who filled the observation area, children experienced the greatest excitement. Getting the chance to look at the sky through a professional telescope for the first time, the young explorers described their experience:

“It was so exciting to see the planets we have seen in books and the craters of the Moon with our own eyes! Looking through the telescope made us feel as if we were walking in space. Seeing Saturn and the craters on the Moon from so close was incredible. The astronomers also taught us how to find stars in the sky. This summer is becoming unforgettable for us. We want to be here at every event.”

Bornova Residents of All Ages Flock to the Events

The events, which have attracted people of all ages, are making a significant contribution to the spread of a culture of science throughout Bornova. Families filled the recreation area, patiently waiting in line for their turn to discover the fascinating world of the night sky.

The events are free and open to everyone. For detailed information, residents can call 0232 999 29 29 (Extension: 2280).

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