This week is International Dark Sky Week, a weeklong celebration of the night. The Pacific Island of Niue, recently declared an official Dark Sky Place by the International Dark Sky Association, invites people across the world to switch off their lights and look to the stars.
Niue recently became the world’s first whole country to become a Dark Sky Place. It received formal accreditation from the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA) as an International Dark Sky Sanctuary and International Dark Sky Community, thus covering the whole country with Dark Sky protection and recognition and deeming it a ‘dark sky nation’.
Felicity Bollen, Niue Tourism CEO says, “These are difficult times with many people restricted to staying at home to stay safe. Star gazing can offer a glimpse through history and a sense of perspective about our place in the universe. It’s an activity most people can do from their backyard or balcony and may provide some solace in these challenging times”.
She adds, “We’re saddened that current events mean we’re unable to share the beauty of the Niue night skies right now, but we look forward welcoming visitors again in the future”.
When visitors can travel to Niue they will be able to enjoy guided Astro-tours led by trained Niuean community members and witness the wonder of a night sky illuminated by thousands of stars, the Milky Way, Andromeda constellation and the large and small Magellanic Clouds.
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