Astrotourism, a trip to observe the stars, will help you return to your virginity.
Studies confirm that this activity reduces stress levels and helps fight anxiety.
That’s why more and more people want to spend the night outdoors, gazing at the constellations, planets and endless nebulae. An expert explains how this travel format works.
What is astrotourism
Astrotourism is a travel format focused on observing stars, planets and cosmic phenomena. Unlike standard tourism, the main goal here is not new cities or sea beaches, but the endless space above your head.
Light pollution in cities does not allow you to see even half of what the night sky hides. That’s why more and more people are going to places where they can fully enjoy the starry picture.
What types of astrotourism are there:
classical – observing stars, planets, meteor showers and the Moon, trips to dark areas without city lights;
astrophotography – photographing the night sky, star clusters and galaxies;
searching for rare phenomena – traveling for the purpose of total solar and lunar eclipses, the northern lights, starfall;
tourism in space centers – the opportunity to experience real cosmonautics at spaceports and in museums.
Interesting: according to scientists, the night sky is becoming brighter by 9.6% every year. Since the 19th century, the glow of stars has become less and less noticeable on the Earth’s surface due to the use of artificial lighting in cities.
Why is astrotourism gaining popularity
The modern world is oversaturated with information and all kinds of events, and the pace of life is constantly accelerating. People are looking for new ways to relax that will help not only change the environment, but also reboot their consciousness, and astrotourism is one of them. It combines natural harmony, scientific curiosity and emotional pleasure.
Why more and more people are heading to the dark corners of the planet:
Interest in space and technology
A few decades ago, space seemed distant and unattainable. Today, private companies are making flights more accessible. In addition, previously a professional telescope was needed to observe the stars, but today a smartphone with an application that will display the names of constellations, planets and satellites is enough.
Fatigue from the urban rhythm and light pollution
Modern megacities are overloaded with artificial light. Neon signs, lanterns, advertisements create light pollution, which is why most residents of large cities have never seen the Milky Way.
Aesthetics and meditative effect
The starry sky amazes with its beauty, and its infinity evokes a sense of admiration. Stargazing creates a sense of calm and allows you to think about something more than everyday worries.
Why it is not only beautiful, but also useful
Astrotourism combines science, recreation and economy. People get new impressions and the opportunity to relax, regions develop tourism, and science popularizes astronomy and makes it closer to society.
Unusual impressions. This is not a banal beach holiday, but an adventure with the opportunity to see rare phenomena: northern lights, meteor showers, solar eclipses.
Special atmosphere. An opportunity to gather with friends around a campfire and discuss the Universe under the endless sky.
How astrotourism benefits regions and science:
New tourist routes. Many dark areas suitable for stargazing are located in remote areas – mountainous areas, deserts, reserves. Astrotourism helps attract tourists to these places.
Development of ecotourism. Unlike mass tourism, astrotourism requires minimal intervention in nature.
Increased interest in science. People who first saw the rings of Saturn through a telescope or
the Milky Way without city light pollution begin to look at the world differently, visiting museums and observatories more often.
Development of amateur astronomy. More and more people are buying telescopes, doing astrophotography and blogging about space.
If you have never observed the night sky away from city light pollution, maybe it’s time to try. This is guaranteed to give you new emotions and impressions, and perhaps inspire you to study the structure of the Universe more deeply.
Illustrative Photo by Philippe Donn: https://www.pexels.com/photo/milky-way-illustration-1169754/
