Magnific milky way over the bungalows in the pacific island of Tokoriki, Fiji.
Perhaps aided by the pandemic and many people’s desire to be outside and away from crowds, astrotourism has been a growing trend within the larger tourism industry for the past several years. Add in the fact that more places are receiving dark sky certification, and there are some incredible destinations around the globe for stargazing and seeing our Milky Way galaxy.
If you’re looking for a tropical escape, Nanuku Resort in Fiji has just announced an offering that may be well-worth the last-minute airfare to attend.
Produced in partnership with NASA, the “Journey to the Stars” program will run from October 22nd to 31st, and feature talks and events all focused on educating guests about the night sky and how best to appreciate it.
Expert’s from NASA’s Solar System Exploration Research Virtual Institute (SSERVI) will be in attendance, including astronaut Dr. Yvonne Cagle and astronomer Brian Day, among others. Topics and events include both a Dark Sky Star Party and a Daytime Star Party (the latter at which guests will safely view the nearest start to earth – the sun), “A Day in the Life of an Astronaut,” and “Mission Impossible” focused on upcoming NASA missions. There are also activities for families – “Create a Star Map” – and time to relax with a “Moon Massage” conducted at night.
The sun sets and stars emerge over the Fijian Nanuku Resort.
In an interview, general manager Logan Miller shared insight into the idea behind the program: “Nanuku Resort’s location on a 500-acre private estate, on a southern peninsula, means that there is little to no light pollution in our area, allowing for ideal viewing of the Pacific night sky.”
“In addition, the legends of navigators and explorers connecting Fiji’s past and present through storytelling are a uniquely Fijian experience,” he adds.
Fiji is located 17 degrees above the equator, and has excellent views of the northern hemisphere sky, as well as some southern stars and constellations near the horizon. Additionally, October’s new moon falls on the 25th, making it an excellent time to stargaze even if you don’t fly all the way to Fiji to do it.
Learn more about the “Journey to the Stars” on the Nanuku Resort website.
