Seeing a solar eclipse is a cool experience – totality is awe-inspiring no matter where in the world you see it. As the 2019 solar eclipse approaches, it’s time to start finalizing your plans if you want to see the shadow of the moon pass over the South Pacific, Chile, and Argentina on July 2nd. There are a variety of …
7 Reasons to Visit Chile’s Elqui Valley
Have you heard of Chile’s Elqui Valley? Chile is considered one of the top astronomical observation destinations in the world. In addition to San Pedro de Atacama high in the Andes, the Elqui Valley north of Santiago offers its own wealth of opportunities for astrotourists. This zone of the Coquimbo Region plays host to both private research observatories and public …
How to Visit NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center
Do you love NASA? Curious about the future of space exploration? Just an uber-nerd like me who wants to visit all of the space destinations possible? A visit to NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center has to be on your list! As part of my trip to Space Camp, I had the chance to visit NASA Marshall. In addition to the …
9 Must-See Events in the Night Sky in March 2019
March marks a turning point in the Earth’s celestial dance. This month, we approach the first equinox of the calendar year, and the seasons officially ‘change’ after the equinox passes. There are also a variety of interesting opportunities to get out and see some of the different objects in our night sky. From planets and dwarf planets to a star …
The Northern Lights in Alaska: All You Need to Know
Alaska: The 49th State. The Last Frontier. The Land of the Midnight Sun. The Best Place in the United States to see the Northern Lights. If you want to see the northern lights (or aurora borealis) in Alaska, you’re not alone. Seeing the northern lights is one of the top reasons people travel to Alaska during the cold winter months, …
Urban Stargazing: How to See the Night Sky Where You Live
Have you ever gone outside of your house and looked up at a full sky of stars? Probably not. Most of us live in urban areas – cities, suburbs, and neighborhoods – where it’s hard to see the stars. That doesn’t mean you can’t see the stars at all though. You can enjoy the popular activity for space-loving city-dwellers of …
How to Visit the Space Shuttle Endeavour
In the United States, we’re lucky to have a lot of opportunities to interact with our national heritage in space. As a government organization, NASA is funded by taxpayers both financially and with public interest and opinion. To help inspire future generations to support NASA and explore space, many amazing relics and artifacts from the different eras of NASA exploration …
Rancho Cacachilas: Eco & Astrotourism in Baja California Sur
Are you an environmentally conscious traveler? Do you enjoy seeing a dark night sky? Consider how these two ideas go together. Ecotourism is an increasingly popular trend as travelers become aware of the impact of tourism on destinations and ecosystems. Simultaneously, more of us are interested in astrotourism – traveling to experience the night sky. Unfortunately, most tourism increases development …
8 Must-See Events in the Night Sky in February 2019
It may be a short month, but there’s plenty to see in the night sky in February. In this month’s night sky forecast, you’ll find eight events worth bundling up for and braving the winter weather on a clear night. Don’t forget that February is also a great time to try and see the northern lights if you live in …
The 16 Best Places to See the Southern Lights in the World
If you’re an avid space enthusiast, you’ve probably seen the northern lights at this point. After all, they’re quite convenient for most of us living in North America and Europe, even if you have to travel to see them. The southern lights, on the other hand, are more difficult to reach. In the few parts of the world where you …