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 …
The Northern Lights in Sweden: All You Need to Know
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. If you’re looking for a winter destination and want to see the northern lights at the same time, consider …
The Southern Lights in New Zealand: All You Need to Know
New Zealand is a space enthusiast’s dream. Stunning stargazing, regular rocket launches, and awe-inspiring aurora are all common sights in New Zealand, though most travelers visit for the beautiful vistas, friendly Kiwi locals, and delicious food and wine. Seriously, if you aren’t sold on New Zealand yet, what’s stopping you? If you’re planning a trip to New Zealand and you’re a fan …
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 Lunar Eclipse: January 20-21, 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 July 27-28, 2018, you may wonder when the next eclipse …
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 …
16 Must-See Events in the Night Sky in April 2019
Let’s hope those notorious ‘April Showers’ stay far away! April is going to be a great month to get out and go stargazing. From close encounters between various planets and our moon to a whole spate of galactic viewing opportunities, you’ll want to get out and look up at least once this month. If you’re looking for one particular night …
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 …
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 …
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 …
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 …
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 …
Vans Launches Astronaut-Worthy Space Voyager Collection
If you’re headed to the moon, you’ve gotta look good. As interest in space and space tourism continues to rise, it’s no surprise that there are new opportunities to rep your pride for the aerospace industry. In partnership with NASA in honor of their NASA’s 60th anniversary this year, Vans’ new Space Voyager collection is ‘go for launch.’ In addition …
3 Easy Space Halloween Costumes You Can Make At Home
Halloween is fast approaching… do you have your costume ready? If you’re a space fan but unsure what costume to wear this year, here are three great ideas that you can easily make at home. Bonus? They’re all space-inspired, so you can proudly show your love of outer space however you celebrate Halloween. 1. NASA Astronaut Instantly recognizable, the blue …
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 …
13 Fascinating Summer Solstice Celebrations Around the World
At 10:07am GMT on Thursday, June 21st, 2018, the earth will experience the June solstice. This is the point of greatest daylight for those of us who live in the upper hemisphere. While many people let the summer solstice pass without note, those of us who pay attention to astronomic events know it’s an exciting day. Additionally, people around the world …
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 …
Vans Launches Astronaut-Worthy Space Voyager Collection
If you’re headed to the moon, you’ve gotta look good. As interest in space and space tourism continues to rise, it’s no surprise that there are new opportunities to rep your pride for the aerospace industry. In partnership with NASA in honor of their NASA’s 60th anniversary this year, Vans’ new Space Voyager collection is ‘go for launch.’ In addition …
Coach Launches Out-of-this-World Space Collection
This is the only time we’ll mention the astronomical prices too. Not every company could successfully revive the 70s with class — and charge a 21st Century premium for it. Nevertheless, space fans will be busy wishing for a sudden windfall after laying eyes on the latest collection from luxury brand Coach. Items are both whimsical and nostalgic, ranging from a NASA …
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 …
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, …
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, …
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 …
How to Visit Johnson Space Center & Space Center Houston
“Houston, we’ve had a problem here.” Most people recognize this line from the movie Apollo 13. When Astronaut Jim Lovell (Tom Hanks) calls down to earth to report a major problem with the mission, his famous line was etched in our collective memory. (It’s often erroneously quoted as “Houston, we have a problem.” Verb tenses matter, people!) It wasn’t some person he was …
How to Plan a Bryce Canyon National Park Stargazing Trip
Bryce Canyon is one of the more underrated national parks in Utah, according to many travelers. It’s often overshadowed by its extremely popular neighbor, Zion National Park. While Bryce Canyon might seem like it doesn’t have as much to offer, it definitely does. From hiking among the hoodoos to stargazing at night, Bryce Canyon has it all, including one 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 …
The 19 Best Places for Stargazing in Atlanta
For some cities, it’s really obvious that it’s hard to go stargazing there. Towering skyscrapers, loads of light pollution, and notoriously cloudy or rainy weather will affect your chances of stargazing in cities like New York City, Los Angeles, and Seattle, for example. Other cities, like Atlanta, are surprisingly good stargazing destinations. While you can’t look straight up from downtown …
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. …
The 13 Best Places for Stargazing in Dallas/Fort Worth
Do you call Dallas or Fort Worth home? Or, are you planning a trip there for business or pleasure? In either case, you might want to go stargazing in the Dallas-Fort Worth metro area… and that sounds a lot easier than it is. While it’s certainly possible to go stargazing near Dallas or Fort Worth, you need to know where …
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 …
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 10 Best Places for Stargazing in Houston, Texas
Houston is America’s fourth largest city… but it also might be one of the most overlooked major cities in the country. Located in the southeastern part of Texas near the Gulf Coast, Houston has everything you could ever want in a city – just ask the 2.3 million people who live there! Unfortunately, when 2.3 million people live anywhere, there’s probably …
The 11 Best Places for Stargazing in Washington D.C.
Washington D.C. is the nation’s capital, and home to arguably the best space museum in the country. Each day, visitors head to the Smithsonian Air & Space Museum to learn about the history of American spaceflight and NASA, or to see the Space Shuttle Discovery in her permanent home in Virginia. That makes D.C. one of those must-visit places at …
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 …
The 19 Best Places for Stargazing in Atlanta
For some cities, it’s really obvious that it’s hard to go stargazing there. Towering skyscrapers, loads of light pollution, and notoriously cloudy or rainy weather will affect your chances of stargazing in cities like New York City, Los Angeles, and Seattle, for example. Other cities, like Atlanta, are surprisingly good stargazing destinations. While you can’t look straight up from downtown …
The 13 Best Places for Stargazing in Dallas/Fort Worth
Do you call Dallas or Fort Worth home? Or, are you planning a trip there for business or pleasure? In either case, you might want to go stargazing in the Dallas-Fort Worth metro area… and that sounds a lot easier than it is. While it’s certainly possible to go stargazing near Dallas or Fort Worth, you need to know where …
The 10 Best Places for Stargazing in Houston, Texas
Houston is America’s fourth largest city… but it also might be one of the most overlooked major cities in the country. Located in the southeastern part of Texas near the Gulf Coast, Houston has everything you could ever want in a city – just ask the 2.3 million people who live there! Unfortunately, when 2.3 million people live anywhere, there’s probably …
The 11 Best Places for Stargazing in Tucson, Arizona
Tucson, Arizona is arguably the best city for stargazing in the United States – if not the world. Home to the International Dark-Sky Association (STG founder Valerie is a proud member!), the city of Tucson has taken large and bold steps to reduce light pollution, and it is one of the best mid-sized cities where you can stargaze right within …
The 12 Best Places for Stargazing in Portland
Portland is know for many things: a respectable soccer team*, funky donuts, and hipsters. But what about stargazing? Can those space enthusiasts among us find fun things to do after dark in the Rose City? As the case for every city we’ve profiled in our series of city stargazing guides, it’s definitely possible to go stargazing in Portland – and …
The 21 Best Places for Stargazing in Salt Lake City
Utah is, as destinations in the western U.S. go, one of the more underrated. Similarly, Salt Lake City is often overlooked for flashier adventure destinations like Denver or stargazing spots like Phoenix. If you want to base your next stargazing or space-focused trip from somewhere new, consider Salt Lake City. Astronomy clubs are active throughout the city, and there are …
The 11 Best Places for Stargazing in Honolulu
For most people, a trip to Hawaii means a vacation full of beaches and sunshine. For the space enthusiasts among us, it also means a chance to kick back, relax, and enjoy some leisurely stargazing. But can you go stargazing near the popular Hawaiian destination of Honolulu? Turns out, you can! Many of Oahu’s most popular beaches turn into great …
The 15 Best Places to go Stargazing in Anchorage
Alaska is a bucket list destination for many people – and for good reason. You can see towering mountains, witness wildlife, and experience phenomena like the aurora borealis first-hand. Most travelers base their Alaska trip out of Anchorage, and the majority visit in the summertime when you can see the Midnight Sun. If you’d rather try to see the northern …