Brazilian Stargazers Seek Out Rural Areas for ‘Astro-tourism’
Pedro Froes, a biologist from Niteroi near Rio de Janeiro, stands in awe as he gazes through a telescope at the stars in Desengano State Park. Located 260 kilometers north of Rio de Janeiro, the park has been designated as Latin America’s first International Dark Sky Park by DarkSky, a global light pollution tracker. Desengano State Park offers a rural setting largely free from light pollution, allowing visitors to marvel at the night sky in all its glory.
Astronomer Daniel Mello from the Valongo Observatory at the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro explains the stark contrast between the night sky in cities like Rio de Janeiro and the unspoiled environment of Desengano State Park. He says, From here you can see 3,000 stars a year with the naked eye, without the help of an instrument. In cities like Rio or Sao Paulo, at most, you can see 200 a year.
Desengano State Park has become a haven for astro-tourists seeking a break from city life and the light pollution it produces. Mello and a group of experts in tourism, ecology, and photography have collaborated to create educational observation sessions in front of about 20 people at the park’s headquarters. Laser pointers guide visitors’ attention to constellations such as the Southern Cross, Scorpio, and Centaurus.
What sets Desengano State Park apart is its isolation from major cities. The nearest big city is 120 kilometers away, shielding the park’s vegetation, forest, and mountains from artificial light. This isolation results in the park offering spectacular views of the night sky, even during moonlit nights. In addition to naked-eye stargazing, two telescopes enable visitors to explore more distant stars.
The impact of light pollution extends beyond hindering stargazing. It wreaks havoc on ecosystems and disrupts wildlife. DarkSky certification requires Desengano State Park to promote environmental education and use low-impact lighting. By reducing light pollution, the park helps maintain ecological equilibrium and protects its rich diversity of birds, mammals, and reptiles.
While astro-tourism is still in its early stages in Brazil compared to countries like Chile, Europe, or the United States, Desengano State Park has witnessed a surge in visitors over the past six months. Nelson Saraiva, who runs one of the few hotels in the small town of Santa Maria Madalena near the park, believes that astro-tourism can bring significant economic benefits to the community. To capitalize on the growing interest, the government and local entrepreneurs have organized a star festival, which is set to become an annual tradition.
Desengano State Park’s success provides a blueprint for other regions in Brazil looking to boost tourism and reconnect people with nature and the starry sky. By preserving natural environments and minimizing light pollution, Brazil can nurture its budding astro-tourism industry and continue to safeguard its ecosystems.
As astro-tourism gains traction in Brazil, there is hope that more people will be able to experience the wonder and beauty of the night sky, inspiring a deeper appreciation for our natural world.
