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3mo ago

Astrotourism Gains Momentum as Travelers Seek Dark Skies and Celestial Wonders

From U.S. national parks to Saudi Arabia's first Dark Sky Parks, destinations worldwide are embracing stargazing tourism and addressing light pollution.

Tourists don't need to go to hotels for starry skies: desert camping is common and accessible, says Sami.
An avid photographer, Sami looks for remote places where she can see features like the Milky Way.
Sami often explores the sparsely populated desert area between Riyadh and the country's eastern border.
Sara Sami, pictured, often visits Saudi Arabia for camping trips in the desert.

Overview

  • Astrotourism, which involves traveling to low-light pollution areas to experience the night sky, is growing in popularity as more people seek awe-inspiring celestial views.
  • U.S. national parks, such as Great Basin and Death Valley, are key destinations for stargazing, with designated Dark Sky certifications and astronomy programs drawing visitors.
  • Saudi Arabia recently established the Middle East's first Dark Sky Parks in AlUla, highlighting its commitment to preserving natural darkness and promoting cultural starlore.
  • Light pollution, which affects 99% of the U.S. population, is a major focus of astrotourism efforts, with destinations adopting sustainable lighting practices to protect ecosystems and enhance night sky visibility.
  • Astrotourism contributes significantly to local economies, with celestial events like solar eclipses generating billions in revenue and inspiring travelers to connect with nature and heritage.