Explore Celestial Wonders Of The Night Sky At These Locations
The roots of stargazing date back centuries to ancient civilizations like the Babylonians and Egyptians who practiced stargazing for navigation, agriculture and religious purposes. However, the invention of telescopes in the 17th century significantly advanced the scientific study of astronomy and further fueled public interest in the cosmos.
Today, many stargazers explore the celestial wonders of the night sky as a form of meditation and relaxation. An excellent way to unwind from daily stressors, stargazing can serve as a peaceful, mindfulness practice. Other benefits of stargazing include its ability to help you sleep better. Studies have shown that exposure to natural light patterns and being closer to nature can lead to increased melatonin production, which promotes better sleep.
Stargazing can have many positive physical effects. getty
Similar to spending time in nature during the day, stargazing can have many positive physical effects, such as lowering blood pressure and cortisol (stress hormone) levels.
Also, the sheer scale and beauty of the cosmos can evoke feelings of awe, wonder and a sense of belonging to something larger than yourself. Research suggests that awe can enhance feelings of happiness, gratitude and even improve decision-making.
Adero provides an excellent vantage point for stargazing. JOHN WOODCOCK for ADERO Scottsdale Resort.
Perched high above the Sonoran Desert in the certified International Dark Sky Community of Fountain Hills, ADERO Scottsdale Resort provides an excellent vantage point for stargazing unlike any other luxury resort in the area. Its signature 'Find Your Way' Dark Sky experience includes weekly guided night sky tours led by the Star Dudes local experts (based on seasonality), high-definition telescopes available for guests to borrow and complimentary access to the Star Walk 2 mobile app for an enhanced look at the stars, planets and constellations. All 177 rooms and suites have either private balconies or patios, including 16 suites with expansive terraces, for taking in the breathtaking mountain views by day and chasing stars under clear desert skies by night.
Stargazers can view the splendor of the Milky Way Galaxy. Carl Christensen Monterey County, California
Monterey County on California's Central Coast offers a stellar lineup of stargazing spots, including: Pinnacles National Park – A premier destination for stargazers. For an immersion into the velvet night sky's celestial wonders with unobstructed views, head to the Peaks View parking area, Bacon Ranch or Chaparral parking area. For a guided experience, Inn at the Pinnacles in the Gabilan Mountains hosts Sky Tours in April and July, led by local astrophotographer Carl Christiansen. Big Sur – The dark skies of Big Sur are a stargazer's dream, with breathtaking views of constellations framed by majestic cliffs at popular spots like Pfeiffer Beach (where you can see the Milky Way) at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. Check out Alila Ventana Big Sur for rustic luxury where the lush forest meets the coastal cliffs
– The dark skies of Big Sur are a stargazer's dream, with breathtaking views of constellations framed by majestic cliffs at popular spots like Pfeiffer Beach (where you can see the Milky Way) at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. Check out Alila Ventana Big Sur for rustic luxury where the lush forest meets the coastal cliffs Garland Ranch Regional Park – In Carmel Valley, Garland Ranch Regional Park offers a scenic setting for gazing at the twinkling constellations in the serenity of the surrounding Santa Lucia Mountains. The Monterey Institute for Research in Astronomy (MIRA) regularly hosts public star parties here. Carmel Valley Ranch offers a sophisticated escape in the foothills of the Santa Lucia Mountains with plenty of room to roam, explore and discover.
The astronomy field offers an excellent view of the night sky. getty Cherry Springs State Park, Pennsylvania
A combination of attributes makes Cherry Springs State Park ideal for stargazing and astronomy: The field is at the top of a 2,300-foot high mountain — the surrounding state forest is relatively undeveloped and nearby communities are in valleys, shielding any light that might affect the park.
The location of the park, 41 degrees north, 77 degrees west, offers a great view of the nucleus of the Milky Way Galaxy.
The astronomy field offers an excellent 360 degree view of the night sky.
All lighting in the park is shielded and all white light has been converted to red.
Three areas of the park are available for stargazing: Night Sky Public Viewing Area — Best short-term stargazing for a few hours. Although white light is permitted, a red filter or cover for your flashlight is recommended to preserve your night vision. Rustic Campground — Suggested for overnight stargazing for casual stargazers. Not recommended for serious stargazers. There are no lighting restrictions in the Rustic Campground. However, to aid in creating a more enjoyable experience for all visitors, it is recommended to use red filters on all light. Campfires should be kept as small as possible.
Suggested for overnight stargazing for casual stargazers. Not recommended for serious stargazers. There are no lighting restrictions in the Rustic Campground. However, to aid in creating a more enjoyable experience for all visitors, it is recommended to use red filters on all light. Campfires should be kept as small as possible. Overnight Astronomy Observation Field — Excellent overnight viewing for serious stargazers with equipment. All lights must have red filter or need to be fully shielded. White light is prohibited.
Explore the night sky from many different locations. getty Acadia National Park, Maine
Acadia National Park offers several locations for outstanding stargazing. Explore the night sky from the west side of Mount Desert Island while enjoying the ocean soundscape. Seawall Picnic Area offers northeastern and southern views over the Atlantic Ocean and the mouth of Somes Sound from a quintessential cobblestone beach. Views of the night sky are unobstructed and convenient for those staying near Southwest Harbor or Bass Harbor. Ocean Path offers many locations for viewing the nights sky. Most locations offer views to the east and large portions of the north and south skies as well. A camp chair or cushions are recommended for comfort on the granite rocks of the coast. Enjoy gazing up into the cosmos nestled comfortably on a blanket on Acadia's largest and very popular sandy beach. Visitors may explore Sand Beach at night, but camping or parking overnight are not allowed. Sand Beach offers a comfortable night sky viewing experience with plenty of room to spread out and peacefully enjoy your stargazing. MORE FROM FORBES Forbes How To Best Experience The Great American Road Trip By Roger Sands Forbes The Uber-Rich Are Flocking To This Small Mountain Town By Roger Sands
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