A Guide To Astrotourism

Humans have been interested in exploring the beauty of the galaxy for many years, though the term astrotourism has only emerged in recent times. An umbrella bracket for travel related to the night sky or astrology, it’s becoming increasing popular – at travel agent Scott Dunn, bookings for celestial experiences were up 120 per cent last year, and Lonely Planet recently published a dedicated guide to astrotourism.

So what’s behind this new cosmic interest? The 50-year anniversary of the Apollo landing last July surely played a part, but it’s also part of a wider shift towards experiential travel: these days we’re generally more inclined to spend money on experiences rather than objects. A growing appreciation for the natural world is a factor, too – what better way to feel connected to the universe than gazing to infinity and beyond?

Astrotourism sees travellers seeking out dark skies, which often means going to remote locations which experience less light pollution – including to the most far-flung destination of all: outer space. Space tourism is set to be big this decade: Virgin Galactic is hoping to send its first amateur cosmonauts into space aboard VSS Unity in the next few months, while test flights are also planned for Jeff Bezo’s Blue Origin space travel company. If you’d rather stick on the earth, though, fear not: there are plenty of stargazing spots closer to home too.

International Dark Sky Reserves

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An Arizona-based non-profit, The International Dark-Sky Association locates and protects dark sky preserves around the world. There are currently 16 certified International Dark Sky Reserves, including three in England: Brecon Beacons National Park, Exmoor National Park and Moore’s Reserve in the South Downs. If you fancy a trip to the other side of the world, both New Zealand and Australia are home to a reserve. The Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve in New Zealand is particularly special, offering stargazers the chance to see constellations only visible in the southern hemisphere, such as the Southern Cross, the Magellanic Clouds and the Milky Way. The futuristic Pic du Midi in France is another big one – it was where NASA’s scientists studied the moonscape in preparation for the Apollo landing. At 2,877 metres high, the observatory is also home to the highest museum in Europe.

Space Travel

Justin Bieber, Leonardo DiCaprio and Sir Richard Branson are are among the 600 ticket holders for Virgin Galactic’s first trip to space, set to take off later this year. Fancy joining them? A second batch of tickets will soon be released to the public – but it’s going to cost you. Ticket prices are yet to be released, but the previous set retailed at a casual $250,000.

The Northern Lights

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The otherworldly Northern Lights – officially called the Aurora Borealis – is a dazzling light phenomenon caused by collisions between electrically charged particles released from the sun that interact with gases such as oxygen and nitrogen. The unpredictable nature of the Aurora means it’s difficult to guarantee a viewing, but there are places in the world where you’re more likely to see them. In the Northern Hemisphere, the Aurora Borealis is centred around the Arctic Circle, so you’re most likely to experience the lights in countries like Iceland, Canada, Scandinavia and Greenland. In the Southern Hemisphere, Antarctica is your best bet, but there are some sightings in the south of New Zealand as well as Argentina. It’s also hard to determine when the best time to go is, but many recommend trying at the end of March or September as the spring and autumn equinoxes mean higher chances.

Nebraska Star Party

For almost 30 years, Nebraska has hosted a week-long Star Party at Merritt Reservoir, a place which boasts spectacular astronomical views. The Beginner’s Field School will ease newbies into the world of stargazing, while long-time observers can enter star-themed challenges including an astro-photo contest. nebraskastarparty.org

Yorkshire Dark Skies Festival

Dark Skies Festival Helmsley star trail | Steve Bell

Yorkshire’s annual Dark Skies Festival (running now until 1 March) features over 100 events and activities revolving around the skies and space. Hosted by the North York Moors and Yorkshire Dales National Parks, the festival features astronomy talks, stargazing experiences, after-dark cycling, night expeditions and virtual space travel experiences. darkskiesnationalparks.org

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