When thinking about Scotland, country of history and mystery, what first comes to mind are castles, wild mountains, lochs, and bagpipes – but perhaps not necessarily that it’s one of the best places to see the northern lights. The aurora is called the Mirrie Dancers in Scotland. The northern lights are created by electrically charged particles of the sun interacting …
29 Best Places to See the Northern Lights in Canada
Whether you’re planning a trip to see polar bears in Manitoba or city-hopping through the southeastern cities like Montreal and Toronto, Canada is a wonderland for cultural and outdoors experiences. It’s also the most popular northern lights destination in North America. With so much space, you might wonder: how and where can I see the northern lights in Canada? In …
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, …
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 …
The Southern Lights in Australia: All You Need to Know
If you’ve ever heard of the aurora australis, you might wonder: is it possible to see the aurora australis in Australia? They are named for Australia, after all! Yes, it’s possible to see the aurora australis – also called the southern lights – in Australia! You just need to know when and where to go. We’ve put together this huge …
The Northern Lights in Iceland: All You Need to Know
If you’ve never seen the northern lights before, Iceland is a great, accessible destination for your first experience. If you have seen the northern lights before but not in Iceland, there’s no place quite like it. In short, everyone will enjoy seeing the northern lights in Iceland, which might be why it’s one of the most popular places on the planet for …
The Northern Lights in Norway: All You Need to Know
When you think of seeing the northern lights, where do you picture yourself? For most people, the answer is Norway! The first major northern lights destination in the world, Norway has warmly welcomed visitors in the cold winter months with the promise of seeing the aurora. If you’re considering or planning a trip to Norway to see the northern lights, …
The Northern Lights in Finland: All You Need to Know
Among Scandinavian countries, Finland is often overlooked. People love Denmark with its delicious food, Sweden with its striking design, and Norway is one of the world’s top aurora destinations. Meanwhile, Finland is easily just as good (or maybe better) when it comes to seeing the northern lights – plus you can enjoy dog sledding, sauna breaks, and delicious Finnish pastries …
The Northern Lights in Greenland: All You Need to Know
Some destinations are easy to get visit; you need to hop on a plane, get a passport stamp, and enjoy the culture, history, or food you came to experience. When it comes to destinations where you can see the aurora, even some of those are easier to get to than others. It’s relatively easy, for example, to visit Iceland or …
The Southern Lights in Patagonia: All You Need to Know
Many of us have ‘seeing the aurora’ on our bucket list – and for good reason. To see the northern lights or southern lights dancing in the atmosphere, shades of green, red, purple and white, is an unforgettable experience and one of the most impressive space tourism activities you can enjoy. For some aurora chasers though, a common destination like …
How to See the Next Lunar Eclipse: July 16-17, 2019
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. After the total lunar eclipse on January 20-21, 2019, you may wonder when the next eclipse …
6 Cool Ways to See the 2019 Solar Eclipse: Cruises & Flights
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 See the Next Solar Eclipse: July 2, 2019
Seeing a solar eclipse is one of the most impressive and rare space tourism experiences on earth. Following the 2017 solar eclipse across the U.S., traveling to see an eclipse is an increasingly popular activity for those of us who love space here on earth. In 2019, there will be another total solar eclipse visible on earth – the first …
The Best Space Movies of All Time — That are Actually About Space
Space has always drawn our eye; the night sky is a compelling aspect of life on earth. It’s no surprise that space is one of the popular destinations for movies, too. Many “best space movies” lists on the internet include a variety of movies which are technically set in space but are actually about something else. The Star Wars movies are a …
Where to See the Apollo Command Modules
Our lunar legacy is more important than ever as we mark the 50th anniversary of mankind’s first steps on the moon. Both NASA and private companies now have their sights on the moon. The best way to prepare for these missions is to learn from those missions that have been there before. All of the Apollo mission Command Modules (CMs) …
8 Must-See Events in the Night Sky in July 2019
The July night sky brings many spectacles for us space tourists to discover and enjoy. We get to see meteors from up to three different locations in July’s night sky, plus a handful of good opportunities to see some of our solar system neighbors. In particular, Jupiter is on display in the night sky in July. Jupiter is still relatively …
The 6 Best Russian Space Museums for Soviet Aerospace History
It’s impossible to understate the contribution Russia has made to the field of space exploration. This is especially true when it comes to human space exploration. Russians launched the first satellite, put the first man in space, put the first man in orbit. They executed the first successful spacewalk. Russia also launched the first woman to space, decades before any …
6 Space Tourism Predictions for 2019
In early 2017, one of the first posts I wrote for Space Tourism Guide was a post of space tourism predictions for the coming year. Back then, I predicted we’d see manned test flights, falling prices, and more interest in space tourism-related activities on earth. Unfortunately, it has taken a long time for these predictions to come to pass! 2017 …
What is Space Tourism? Here’s the New Definition.
The Solar Eclipse is one of the Year’s Biggest Events — Yes, it’s Space Tourism. August 21, 2017. If you’re a space fan, you know what’s happening on this date. For the first time since 1979, US citizens will see a solar eclipse in its full glory — the shadow of the sun will cross diagonally from Oregon to South Carolina for about two-and-a-half minutes. …
9 Interesting Winter Solstice Celebrations Around the World
The winter solstice will occur on December 21st, 2018. At this point, the northern hemisphere is tipped away from the sun at the furthest point in our annual orbit. For many of us, it will be a dark and cold day of the year. For others, it’s a time of celebration, to mark the beginning of winter or eventual return …
The 6 Best Russian Space Museums for Soviet Aerospace History
It’s impossible to understate the contribution Russia has made to the field of space exploration. This is especially true when it comes to human space exploration. Russians launched the first satellite, put the first man in space, put the first man in orbit. They executed the first successful spacewalk. Russia also launched the first woman to space, decades before any …
How to Plan a Zion National Park Stargazing Trip
Did you know Zion Park is the fourth most popular national park in the United States? People are drawn to visit for the beautiful natural rock formations, the great hiking trails, and the chance to see a night sky that’s almost entirely free of light pollution. Yes, it’s true: one of the best reasons to visit Zion National Park is …
How to Plan a Joshua Tree Stargazing Trip in 2019
If you love stargazing, there are a few great places in the world that are surely on your must-travel-someday list. The Grand Canyon is surely on that list, as well as every Dark Sky Reserve. If you’re in the U.S., you probably have Joshua Tree on your list too. This National Park is known for its amazing vegetation, stunning rock …
11+ Events to Celebrate the Apollo 11 50th Anniversary This Summer
In July 1969, astronauts Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin were the first two people to step foot on the moon. Now, 50 years on, it’s amazing how far the space program has come – and how far we have left to go. To mark the occasion, there are a variety of commemorative Apollo 11 events around the country. These “Apollo …
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 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 …
What It’s Really Like to Go to Space Camp
Did you dream of being an astronaut as a kid? Maybe your own kid is completely space-obsessed. Whether you’re enduring an endless stream of pleas from your child – or your inner child –, it’s time to go to Space Camp! Space Camp is a one-of-a-kind experience where you can relive those dreams of astronaut stardom or let your own …
A Guide for Stargazing in Calaveras County, California
Located 2.5 hours east of the San Francisco, Calaveras County is a perfect weekend getaway from the Bay Area. It is a popular destination for hiking, biking, and boating in the summer, and for skiing in the Sierra Nevadas in the winter. Throughout the year you can learn about the county’s historic roots and sample delicious local food and wine. …
How to Plan an Astronomy Trip to the Royal Observatory Greenwich
The Royal Observatory Greenwich is one of the world’s top historic astronomy destinations. King Charles II commissioned the Royal Observatory in Greenwich in 1675. Sir Christopher Wren originally chose the site, and the Royal Observatory in Greenwich began operations in 1676. In the nearly 350 years since, the Royal Observatory Greenwich has been one of the foundational observatories in the world. In fact, …
How to Plan an Acadia National Park Stargazing Trip
The wind whips up over the mountaintop. It’s the kind of night where you can’t help but shiver – except there are so many stars overhead that it’s distractingly beautiful. This is what it’s like stargazing in Acadia National Park. If you want this experience for yourself, you’re not alone. Acadia National Park is one of the best spots for …
9 Amazing Ways to Experience Space in Huntsville, Alabama
If you’re a space nerd at all, you know about Huntsville, Alabama. If you’re not, maybe you heard about it on The New York Times’ 52 Places list this year. It was selected because of the rising interest in astrotourism and space. It’s also the 50th Anniversary of the Apollo Moon Landing this July, and they’re planning a massive party …
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 …
What It’s Really Like to Go to Space Camp
Did you dream of being an astronaut as a kid? Maybe your own kid is completely space-obsessed. Whether you’re enduring an endless stream of pleas from your child – or your inner child –, it’s time to go to Space Camp! Space Camp is a one-of-a-kind experience where you can relive those dreams of astronaut stardom or let your own …
6 Space Tourism Predictions for 2019
In early 2017, one of the first posts I wrote for Space Tourism Guide was a post of space tourism predictions for the coming year. Back then, I predicted we’d see manned test flights, falling prices, and more interest in space tourism-related activities on earth. Unfortunately, it has taken a long time for these predictions to come to pass! 2017 …
A Guide for Stargazing in Calaveras County, California
Located 2.5 hours east of the San Francisco, Calaveras County is a perfect weekend getaway from the Bay Area. It is a popular destination for hiking, biking, and boating in the summer, and for skiing in the Sierra Nevadas in the winter. Throughout the year you can learn about the county’s historic roots and sample delicious local food and wine. …
How to Plan an Astronomy Trip to the Royal Observatory Greenwich
The Royal Observatory Greenwich is one of the world’s top historic astronomy destinations. King Charles II commissioned the Royal Observatory in Greenwich in 1675. Sir Christopher Wren originally chose the site, and the Royal Observatory in Greenwich began operations in 1676. In the nearly 350 years since, the Royal Observatory Greenwich has been one of the foundational observatories in the world. In fact, …
The Northern Lights in Iceland: All You Need to Know
If you’ve never seen the northern lights before, Iceland is a great, accessible destination for your first experience. If you have seen the northern lights before but not in Iceland, there’s no place quite like it. In short, everyone will enjoy seeing the northern lights in Iceland, which might be why it’s one of the most popular places on the planet for …
The Ultimate Guide to Stargazing in Sedona: When, Where & How
If you love stargazing, there are certain destinations that simply must be on your list. Sedona, Arizona, is one of those places. If you have your heart set on stargazing in Sedona, here’s everything you need to know. From when to visit and where to go, to the stargazing tours and night-sky friendly hotels you can stay in, and even …
The 11 Best Places to Go Stargazing in Pittsburgh
Located where three rivers converge (the Ohio River, the Monongahela River, and the Allegheny River), Pittsburgh has deep historical roots as a good city for business and innovation. During the Gilded Age, industrialists like Andrew Carnegie established companies that helped Pittsburgh grow; today, many major tech companies have their offices in Pittsburgh. All that growth and industry has been good …
How to See the Milky Way in 5 Easy Steps
For the cool astronomers and the nerdy researchers, tossing out big numbers becomes a way of life. The nearest planet outside our solar system, Proxima Centauri-b, is 4.2 light years away. Andromeda, which is supposed to be the closest galaxy to Earth, is 2.5 million light years away. It is only when we look up into the depths of the …
The 19 Best Places for Stargazing in Columbus
Located right near the center of Ohio, Columbus is one of those great midwest cities that never fails to surprise you. From world-class museums to great food and drink, there’s plenty to do during the day in Columbus. Once the sun sets, you can also keep yourself busy. You could bask in the bright nightlife of Short North, or head …
How to Plan an Acadia National Park Stargazing Trip
The wind whips up over the mountaintop. It’s the kind of night where you can’t help but shiver – except there are so many stars overhead that it’s distractingly beautiful. This is what it’s like stargazing in Acadia National Park. If you want this experience for yourself, you’re not alone. Acadia National Park is one of the best spots for …
The Ultimate Guide to Stargazing in Chile’s Elqui Valley
Now that the sun has set and the dogs have stopped barking, the night is silent. The stars shine overhead. The Milky Way stretches across the sky, with inky spots punctuating its light. Our nearest galactic neighbors, the Magellanic Clouds sit in the southern sky. This is the night sky above the Elqui Valley, one of the world’s top stargazing …
The 20 Best Places to Go Stargazing in New York City
It’s impossible to go stargazing in a big city. It’s definitely impossible to go stargazing in New York City… Right?? Well, not exactly. No, you won’t be able to see the Milky Way or gaze at the deepest objects in space. But it is possible to see at least a few of the brightest objects in the sky. Whether you …
How to Plan a Zion National Park Stargazing Trip
Did you know Zion Park is the fourth most popular national park in the United States? People are drawn to visit for the beautiful natural rock formations, the great hiking trails, and the chance to see a night sky that’s almost entirely free of light pollution. Yes, it’s true: one of the best reasons to visit Zion National Park is …
How to Plan a Joshua Tree Stargazing Trip in 2019
If you love stargazing, there are a few great places in the world that are surely on your must-travel-someday list. The Grand Canyon is surely on that list, as well as every Dark Sky Reserve. If you’re in the U.S., you probably have Joshua Tree on your list too. This National Park is known for its amazing vegetation, stunning rock …
The 9 Best Places to Go Stargazing in Cincinnati
The city of Cincinnati in Ohio is a city known for its nature trails, sports teams, and city skyline. Some of its attractions include the Cincinnati Zoo, Fountain Square, and the Theodore M. Berry International Friendship Park. But did you know that one of the most popular tourist activities in the Queen City is stargazing? Cincinnati is actually one of …
The Best Places & Tours for Stargazing in Hawaii
Most people visit Hawaii for daytime activities: snorkeling, sunbathing, or exploring the active volcanic areas of each of the five main islands that attract travelers. For stargazing, Hawaii is also a great destination: each island offers a unique quality to the night sky, and Hawaii’s remoteness and concentrated residential development create dark sky areas that are among the best in …