Stargazing in the Atacama Desert, Chile: A celestial journey
What's the story
The Atacama Desert in Chile is one of the driest places on Earth, ensuring clear skies for most of the year. This unique characteristic makes it an ideal spot for stargazing. Its vast, pristine landscapes serve as a backdrop that seems almost otherworldly, attracting astronomers and curious travelers who are keen to gaze upon the stars.
Observatory tour
Visit the ALMA Observatory
The Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA), one of the most significant astronomical projects, is perched at 5,000 meters above sea level. It offers free guided tours, where visitors can delve into astronomy and explore how scientists use the array to study the universe's beginnings. Advance booking is necessary due to the tours' popularity and limited availability.
Moon Valley
Explore Moon Valley at sunset
Valle de la Luna or Moon Valley offers landscapes that resemble lunar surfaces. Exploring this area at sunset provides a breathtaking experience as the sky transitions through vibrant colors before settling into a star-filled night. The absence of light pollution ensures that even with naked eyes, visitors can witness an astonishing number of stars and constellations.
Star tours
Nighttime astronomy tours
Several companies in the vicinity of San Pedro de Atacama conduct nighttime astronomy tours. Initially, these tours include a short educational session on astronomy. Following this, knowledgeable guides facilitate telescope observations for the participants. This presents an opportunity to closely observe planets, nebulae, and galaxies. Due to significant drops in desert temperatures at night, wearing warm clothing is highly recommended for comfort.
Desert camping
Camping under the stars
Camping in the Atacama Desert offers unparalleled stargazing from dusk till dawn. Secure permission and prepare with water and supplies. Waking to a vast, starry sky connects you deeply with nature's beauty, making each moment memorable. This experience not only showcases the cosmos's vastness but also fosters a profound bond with the timeless beauty of the natural world.