With NASA forecasting exceptional solar activity over the next few years, the opportunity to witness dazzling celestial displays like the Northern Lights has never been better. For travelers seeking the ultimate stargazing experiences, DarkSky Parks around the globe should be top of list.
On October 28, Norway unveiled its first official DarkSky Park in Øvre Pasvik National Park, providing a pristine haven for night sky enthusiasts. This new designation is part of a global movement to preserve our planet’s diminishing dark skies while offering immersive ways to connect with nature, culture, and the cosmos. Norway’s Øvre Pasvik National Park combines unparalleled Northern Lights viewing with unique experiences like guided tours by Sami storytellers who share indigenous interpretations of the stars, creating a journey as spiritual as it is awe-inspiring. Up Norway, a leader in crafting exclusive Scandinavian travel experiences, helps travelers uncover the best locations to catch these magical displays. Their insider-curated list includes top spots like Øvre Pasvik DarkSky Park and beyond, where travelers can marvel at the aurora borealis while connecting with Norway’s rich cultural heritage.
The dark sky movement is also gaining traction globally. Across the Atlantic, Tubac, Arizona, has earned recognition as a newly certified International DarkSky Community, joining a prestigious group of just 48 locations worldwide. With nearby Tumacácori National Historical Park already designated as a DarkSky Park, Tubac offers travelers a rich blend of art, history, and celestial beauty.
From Arizona’s meticulously preserved starlit skies to Norway’s cutting-edge dark sky conservation efforts, these destinations highlight the importance of protecting nocturnal environments for future generations while providing unforgettable travel experiences
