Under the starlight. Uranography and astrophotography in Chios.

Under the starlight. Uranography and astrophotography in Chios.

A unique journey through the Aegean night sky awaits the residents and visitors of Chios from August 9 to 14, 2026. Each evening, from 8:30 PM to 11:30 PM, the beach of Agios Aimilianos transforms into an open-air observatory, guided by astrophotographer George Ntekas.

Dates: 9-14 of August 2026, from 20:30 to 23:30 (every evening)

Location: Agios Aimilianos Beach, Chios (12 km south of the city of Chios)

The aim:

• to offer residents and visitors an experiential educational and recreational activity focused on the night sky, constellations, and astrophotography
• to introduce the public to the art of night photography and astrophotography using professional equipment;
• to foster public interest in nature and encourage appreciation of the island’s beautiful landscapes
• and, finally, to highlight the island as an ideal destination for stargazing, thanks to its low light pollution and distinctive landscapes.

What the activity entails:

• During the sessions, George Ntekas will “paint” across the starry sky using a special astronomical laser, taking the audience on a journey through the constellations and the secrets of the heavens.
• At the same time, with the aid of professional equipment, participants will have the opportunity to meet the art of astrophotography and capture the magic of the night sky in unique images.

With its low light pollution, clear island skies, and unique landscapes, Chios offers the ideal natural setting for such an experience.

George Ntekas was born in 1980 in Messolonghi. He is a mechanical engineer and photography school graduate, he lives and works between Messolonghi and Chios. Photography and astronomy go hand in hand with his passion for traveling in his motorhome, as he seeks out the most remote areas with minimal light pollution to photograph the starry sky and rural landscapes. His desire to share his knowledge of the art of photography with others has led him to organize regular workshops. He runs his own photography studio, where he prints and shows his work. He has taken part in many group photography exhibitions, both online and featuring physical prints. A list of his work:

• 2020: Photographing ancient monuments in the Prefectures of Aetolia-Acarnania and Lefkada under starlight (in collaboration with the Ephorate of Antiquities of Aetolia-Acarnania and Lefkada).
• 2021: Publication of a photography album by the Ephorate of Antiquities and the Ministry of Culture for distribution to museums across the country.
• 2021: First solo exhibition titled “Journey into the Past” (presentation of astrophotography work from Messolonghi and Chios).
• 2022: Photographing the night sky in Kythira, southern Crete, and Gavdos.
• 2023: Photography safari in Australia for the total solar eclipse.
• 2024: Exhibition in Athens titled “Amidst the Lakes” (a visual journey through Messolonghi).
• 2024: Photographing the total solar eclipse in Texas, USA.
• 2024: Exhibition titled “Like the Flash of a Lighthouse” at the Chios arts festival “Where I Live” (photographs capturing Chios’s seafaring spirit and maritime tradition alongside the stars).
• 2025: Relocation of the exhibition “Amidst the Lagoons” to Messolonghi, as part of the “Exodus” Commemorative Celebrations.
• 2025: Exhibition titled “The Mastic of the Sky” (astrophotography of Chios, in collaboration with the Ephorate of Antiquities of Chios).

To better accommodate the public, a small parking area is available at the beach.

Ticket price: €12. The event is suitable for all ages. For more information: +30 6938992802

🪑Please book your seats here: 👉https://forms.gle/TPouKcJQw1ZjAZhy9

Event sponsors: Pyxida Store and Kotsovolos.
The Kotsovolos store in Chios is offering a camera tripod through a raffle! The right to participate is open to all attendees.