The Narrated Sky — Casasco Naturalistic Astronomical Observatory

A night of stars and stories in the Tortona Hills

The Narrated Sky is one of the astronomical outreach evenings organized by the "A. Zanassi" Naturalistic Astronomical Observatory of Casasco, a small town in the Province of Alessandria nestled in the Tortona Hills, Piedmont. At an altitude of approximately 450 meters, far from the light pollution of the plains, the observatory offers a privileged vantage point to gaze up at the night sky.

Myths, science, and archaeoastronomy

The evening combines the rigor of scientific outreach with the charm of storytelling. The audience is taken on a journey through the myths, stories, and rhythms that defined ancient sky observatories: from legend-filled constellations to the earliest forms of timekeeping linked to the movement of the stars. This is the realm of archaeoastronomy, the discipline that studies the relationship between past civilizations and the celestial vault.

The speakers

The event is led by two prominent figures: Luigi Torlai, an expert in archaeoastronomy, and Michele Bellone, a science journalist and director of the Intrecci Festival. Together, they guide participants through both ancient skies and contemporary perspectives.

Telescope observation

At the end of the theoretical session, weather permitting, there will be a guided observation session using the observatory's telescopes. Planets, star clusters, and deep-sky objects become visible under the guidance of the association's amateur astronomers.

A local observatory

The Casasco observatory is managed by the Astronomy and Environment APS Association, a local branch of the Italian Amateur Astronomers Union (UAI). Founded in 1997, it is now a reference point for astronomical outreach in the Tortona area, offering an annual calendar of conferences and observation nights open to the public. "The Narrated Sky" is part of this program, supported by the Compagnia di San Paolo Foundation and the Cassa di Risparmio di Tortona Foundation.

Who is it for?

• Families with children (free admission for those under 14)
• Curious individuals and astronomy enthusiasts
• Anyone looking for a unique evening experience in the heart of the Tortona Hills

Given the hilly location, layered clothing is recommended: a hoodie or a windbreaker will make your evening under the stars more comfortable.