Barrenjoey Lighthouse at Palm Beach- Photos: Hamish Downes.
One of the major travelling trends for 2025 is Astro Tourism. Activities that combine night sky observation as well as leisure activities related to astronomy have struck a chord with travellers. Fortunately for those that reside in the Asia Pacific region, Australia provides some of the best stargazing experiences.
A journey down under provides opportunities to embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey to see breathtaking wonders of the night sky. With vast expanses free from light pollution and attractions and accommodations geared towards finding the best nighttime views, there are opportunities for stargazing in Australia throughout most of the year.
From eclipse experiences to chasing the renowned Southern Lights here are a few illuminating things to put on your itineraries in Australia if you’re a fan of all things celestial.
Starry Eyed Surprise
Mount Stromlo – Photo: Dilyar Barat Images.
At the Mount Stromlo Observatory in Canberra, visitors can partake in free public astronomy nights. On select dates from April to September, there’s ample opportunity for immersive stargazing across Australia’s skies.
Stare At The Milky Way
Alice Springs Earth Sanctuary – Photo: Tourism Australia.
For a closer look at the Milky Way head to the gateway to Australia’s epic outback Alice Springs in the Northern Territory. Earth Sanctuary offers stargazing tours that can be combined with dinner or an overnight stay. There are also ample opportunities to experience lesser-known phenomena like the dark nebulae, and your favourite planets.
Marvel At The Moon
A view of the Blood Moon from Bryon Bay – Photo: Tourism Australia
In 2023, moon lovers marvelled at the sight of the blood moon over Byron Bay. This year, from 7-8 September, visitors can catch a total lunar eclipse – where the earth is directly between the Sun and Moon – from Western Australia. A trip to Perth during this time will allow you to witness the entire duration of the blood moon. Adventure chasers and nature lovers can also hike to the Lions Lookout Walk or Eagle View Lookout for unobstructed views.
Stunning Solar Eclipse
A night time image looking towards Palm Beach Headland – Photo: Ed Hurst.
Two partial solar eclipses will occur in 2025. However, only one can be seen from Asia Pacific, down in the Southern regions of Australia. Mark your calendars for 21 September and bear witness to the cross of the Moon between the Sun and the Earth from Sydney, New South Wales. Also consider stopping by Palm Beach – officially designated as Australia’s first Urban Night Sky Place by DarkSky International. Here you can don eclipse glasses and join other astronomy enthusiasts across Governor Phillip Park to catch this phenomenon with your own eyes.
Seek Out The Southern Lights
Mount Wellington, Hobart – Photo: Tourism Australia.
Also known as Aurora Australis, this elusive and ethereal lightshow from nature is best seen from Tasmania. Embark on a tour with Premier Travel Tasmania on Mount Wellington/Kunanyi to seek out expert guidance for the best chance of seeing the phenomena, known for its green and purple rays.
Staircase To The Moon
Roebuck Bay, Broome, Staircase to the Moon – Photo: Tourism Australia.
This natural phenomenon occurs when a full moon rises over the exposed tidal flats of Roebuck Bay, Broome, Western Australia. Do note, Staircase to the Moon can only be spotted 2-3 days a month between March to October. If you’re visiting between June to September, do make an evening of it and also visit its Thursday night markets.
