This work, supported by a grant from the IAU Office of Astronomy for Development, focuses on using astrotourism as a tool for socioeconomic development in rural communities. By expanding the traditional science-based approach to include local strengths such as cultural heritage and natural environments, astrotourism was recontextualised into the broader definition of night sky tourism. This broader scope offers immersive experiences like starlit dinners and nocturnal hikes, designed to engage and benefit rural communities economically.
The resources developed through this work target individuals, existing tourism businesses, and communities around observatories, helping them harness their unique assets for sustainable tourism.
The following resources were created to match each target audience:
NIGHT SKY TOURISM: A QUICK START GUIDE
A short crash course into creating a tourism product for rural areas. Visual emphasis and designed for affordable printing. This also comes in a guided workbook format.
IN WORKBOOK FORMAT
A NIGHT SKY TOURISM GUIDE FOR TOURISM BUSINESSES
A guide to bridge the transition into astrotourism by providing practical insights and step-by-step instructions for integrating night sky experiences into existing tourism offerings.
NIGHT SKY TOURISM FOR COMMUNITIES AROUND OBSERVATORIES
Observatories who can help surrounding rural inhabitants create experiences. Their strengths are the ability to provide extended support to rural inhabitants to help them create a night sky experience.
For more information about the resources visit astro4dev.org/astrotourism-resources