Where to go to explore the mysteries of the universe? Here is a list of the darkest places in the world that guarantee the best-quality astronomical observations for both professionals and amateurs of the sky full of stars.
La Palma, Canary Islands
There was no other way for this list to start. La Palma is an island with a varied landscape. UNESCO has named it a biosphere reserve. Volcanoes, forests, beaches and numerous trekking paths – each of us will find their favorite way of spending free time here. But that’s not all. The conditions on the island and its location in the Atlantic Ocean provide an excellent opportunity to observe the sky – one of the best in the world. The perfect astronomical quality of La Palma is confirmed by the Starlight certificate, which distinguishes these types of places, and to ensure that nothing disturbs the contemplation of the stars, for instance, Regulations of the Sky Law have been applied.
It is on this island that the Roque de los Muchachos astrophysical observatory has been operating since 1985. It is located on the top of the island, over 2400 m above sea level, so visiting it lets you literally elevate above the clouds. The sky above the observatory at night has minimal light pollution. Observing the Milky Way from this spot is a sheer pleasure. Of course, there are also other observation points on the island, located much lower, such as the one on the San Antonio volcano in the southern part of La Palma (just over 600 m above sea level), which allows you to admire the stars according to your needs and possibilities – alone or with a guide.
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Westhavelland Nature Park, Germany
Where is the best place to watch the stars without a need to plan a long trip in advance? A good option is a trip to Germany, or more precisely, to the Westhavelland Nature Park, located about 70 kilometers from Berlin. The region of over 1,300 km2 is home to many endangered species of animals and plants. On the Havel River you can observe beavers, otters and white-tailed eagles. It is also worth going for a walk to be able to fully admire the wildlife.
The aforementioned nature park is closely connected to the park of stars. This place has been called the Dark Sky Reserve, recognized for its low light pollution. There are observation points in the park, such as Zootzen or the Gülpe sports ground with a camping site. There is also the Sternenblick Parey observation station, where you can take part in lectures or joint sky observations with a guide.
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Hortobágy, Hungary
It’s now time for Hungary and its region near the eastern border with Romania. This is where the Hortobágy National Park operates. It is the oldest Hungarian national park. Its area is over 800 km2, and the landscape is formed by alkaline swamps, meadows and dry pastures. Vast, flat areas are home to many animal species, especially birds. Hortobágy is on the UNESCO World Heritage List for a reason.
This area was also awarded the Dark Sky Park title, thus earning the reputation of an ideal place for stargazing. There is a public astronomical observatory in the park, and many people book night walks under the starry skies as part of astronomy programs aimed at tourists. It is here that you can admire the Milky Way or the zodiacal light. The authorities are making every effort to protect this place from light pollution, thus ensuring not only perfect conditions for observing the stars but caring for the peaceful life of wild animals at the same time.
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Cherry Springs State Park, Pennsylvania
Cherry Springs State Park in the eastern United States is another “dark place” that astronomers and other stargazers will love. Vast area at an altitude of 700 m above sea level is surrounded by the Susquehannock forest, which provides additional protection against polluted light. There are campsites and hiking trails in the park.
Visitors can choose to observe the stars individually or under the supervision of a guide. Tourists can also avail of both generally accessible areas (ideal for a short, several-hour-long sky observation), as well as tent sites or an overnight astronomy observation field (you need to book a place in advance). Cherry Springs State Park is a place that guarantees a 360-degree view and perfect conditions for admiring the Milky Way or other interesting astronomical phenomena, as befits a place with the Dark Sky Park certificate.
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Atacama, Chile
Atacama is the driest desert in the world. The prevailing weather conditions here made it possible to create ideal conditions for observing the stars and more. And although the cracked crust of the earth harbors vegetation, the source of moisture here is not rainfall, but fogs. Dry air, no clouds and virtually zero light pollution are the main reasons why there are numerous astronomical observatories in the region.
Of course, the largest and most famous of them is the ALMA observatory, equipped with the most modern and largest telescopes. The facility is located at an altitude of 5000 m above sea level, thus being inaccessible to amateurs, but all lovers of the starry sky can use the services of other observation points located below and the help of experts. For many years, astrotourism has been rapidly developing here and it is safe to say that anyone who decides to admire the sky in this place will return home with exceptional memories.
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Tromsø, Norway
Finally, a journey beyond the Arctic Circle and the Norwegian city of Tromsø. The Scandinavian landscape creates a harmonious duo here with a rather mild climate for this region – all thanks to the Gulf Stream. Tromsø is a great place for a winter holiday, but not only. All lovers of the beautiful, starry sky and the northern lights will feel great here. Polar night in Tromsø lasts from November to January. This time provides excellent conditions for observing the sky at night.
On cloudless nights, the chances of seeing this miraculous astronomical phenomenon are high. Sometimes you just need to be patient or to go on a nearby trip around the area, but one thing is certain – even if the northern lights do not appear on a given night, the sight of countless stars in the sky will certainly make up for it. Taking part in professional sky observation, under the supervision of a specialist is also worth considering. They will not only take us to the best viewpoints, but also take care of, among others, taking souvenir photos.
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In recent years, the so-called Dark Sky tourism is becoming more and more popular. It is hardly surprising. One look at the stars is enough to distance yourself from everyday life and treat yourself to a brief moment of respite.