Valerie Stimac
Valerie is the founder and editor of Space Tourism Guide. She grew up in Alaska, has lived across the U.S., and traveled around the world to enjoy the night sky from many different perspectives. Join her on this journey to explore space right here on earth.
9 Marvelous Spots for Stargazing in Maryland
Maryland is known for may things, including – but certainly not limited to – blue crabs, baseball, and Old Bay seasoning. (I can still imagine the smell in my mind!) But what about stargazing in Maryland? Most people are surprised to learn that I was actually born in Maryland and spent the first few years of my life there...
The 8 Best Spots for Stargazing in Eugene, Oregon
Nestled in the heart of the Pacific Northwest, Eugene, Oregon, is a delightful base for adventures in the Pacific Northwest. While its lush landscapes, vibrant arts scene, and eclectic vibes often steal the limelight, there's a nightly spectacle that promises an equally mesmerizing experience...
The 7 Best Places to See the Northern Lights in Sweden This Winter
Beautiful countryside, delicious fika and coffee breaks, and the chance to see the world's best aurora from an ice hotel... Who's in? Canada, Norway, and Iceland may get all the limelight, but Sweden is a great destination for seeing the northern lights – and it's much less crowded during the aurora season since people flock to other countries...
20 Incredible Spots for Stargazing in New York State
The Empire State is known for many things, great sports teams, autumn leaf-peeping, and the biggest city in the country among them. And while I've already covered that stargazing in New York City is challenging (at best!), there's a lot more to New York than the Big Apple...
How to See the 2023 Orionids Meteor Shower
Orion is one of the most recognizable constellations in the sky, thanks to its bright stars and clear shape. This northern constellation is most visible in the winter months, and goes by the nickname "The Hunter" as the stars' shape appears to point at the neighboring bull, Taurus. Additionally, Orion is home to one of the few nebulae that can be seen with the unaided eye: the Orion Nebula, or Messier 42...
13 Outstanding Spots for Stargazing in Oklahoma
Oklahoma, where the wind comes sweeping down the plain and a tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty beckons travelers from near and far. Beyond its famous musical roots and the tales of the old frontier, the Sooner State offers a skyward spectacle that's truly a sight to behold...
How to See the Next Lunar Eclipse: October 28-29, 2023
As interest in astrotourism grows, eclipse chasing has become an increasingly popular activity. Whether you travel to see an eclipse or are lucky enough to enjoy them as they pass over your home, there's no denying that eclipses are powerful and humbling to experience. But when is the next lunar eclipse occurring?...
5 Easy, DIY Space Halloween Costumes for 2023
Halloween is fast approaching... do you have your space Halloween costumes ready? I'll admit, one of two things always happens to me. Either I forget about Halloween until about October 29th and have to scramble to put together a costume or – more recently, thanks to writing this post a few years ago – I grab my blue astronaut jumpsuit and call it a good...
The 9 Best Spots for Stargazing in Sacramento
Sacramento: the vibrant capital city of California, brimming with history, culture, and picturesque landscapes. While it may be known for its iconic Tower Bridge and the nostalgic charm of Old Sacramento, there's another treasure that often goes unnoticed – the opportunity to see the stars above once the sun goes down...
18 Must-See Astronomy Events in the October Night Sky (2023)
In the northern hemisphere, October evokes thoughts of crunchy leaves, jack-o-lanterns, and yes, even those pumpkin flavored drinks and treats. It also signals a full turning of the seasons; after the equinox in September, we're into aurora season – and it turns out to be meteor season too! This year, the October night sky is going to be a great one...
