When you stand in the starlight under the Milky Way, the night sky is one of the most incredible wonders many of us have not seen, which is under threat due to the constant march of human progress and consequent light pollution. Below are some of my favorite dark sky destinations around the world.
The Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, New Zealand
The Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve is one of the best places in the country to view the night sky. Comprised of Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park and the Mackenzie Basin of Aotearoa New Zealand’s South Island, the Dark Sky Reserve was certified in 2012 to continue protecting the dark skies in the area.
Stargazing (天体观察) enthusiasts should plan a visit to Mt John Observatory, tours of which must be booked in advance.
The Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland
Most visitors go to Ireland’s western Wild Atlantic Way to explore beyond hot spots like Dublin and Cork, but the route is also fast becoming a great region for stargazing, thanks to the efforts of local communities along the Way.
If planning a trip, keep in mind that Ireland does have wet months where overcast skies are more likely to affect your stargazing prospects.
Wadi Rum, Jordan
Wadi Rum is also sometimes called “The Valley of the Moon”, though you’re more likely to compare it to Mars if you visit it. Famous for its otherworldly landscapes in movies like Prometheus, Rogue One: A Star Wars Story and The Martian, Wadi Rum’s towering red rock formations are extremely interesting to explore by day, and offer protection from any distant light pollution once the sun sets.
Stargazing in Wadi Rum is a breathtaking experience and reminds us how our ancestors have experienced the night sky for thousands of years.
【小题1】What might be a disadvantage of stargazing in Ireland?| A．Conservation efforts. | B．Heavy tourism. |
| C．Customer service. | D．Local climate. |
| A．Unusual landscapes. | B．Ancestors’ experiences. |
| C．Its geographical location. | D．Its local film studios. |
| A．To compare things. | B．To inform readers. |
| C．To warn readers. | D．To announce something. |
