In a remote corner of Ceredigion, west Wales, a remarkable experience awaits those seeking solace under the vast expanse of the night sky. As the first stars flicker to life after hours of waiting, a group of stargazers, led by astrotourism guide Dafydd Wyn Morgan, embarks on a journey through the cosmos, connecting with both the universe and their own sense of wonder.
A Journey into Darkness
The evening begins in near-total darkness, the clouds obscuring any view of the stars. As the clock strikes 22:30, the celestial canvas transforms, revealing a breathtaking array of stars that stretch infinitely in every direction. This awe-inspiring moment is shared by Siân and James Harrison, passionate astronomy enthusiasts who have travelled from Cardiff to the quaint hamlet of Gogoyan.
With blankets laid out beneath the night sky, the trio gazes up at Jupiter, one of the most luminous planets visible from Earth. Using a green laser pointer, Wyn Morgan illuminates the stars, directing their attention to Orion’s Belt. James expresses his fascination with this constellation, noting its significance as a stellar nursery where new stars are continuously born. “I’ll focus on something, and it’ll be 150 million light years away,” he muses, grappling with the vastness of space.
The Philosophy of Star Bathing
Wyn Morgan, founder of the astrotourism venture Serydda, leads sessions that blend astronomy with a meditative experience akin to “forest bathing,” a practice that originated in Japan during the 1980s. His approach encourages participants to immerse themselves in the emotional resonance of the night sky rather than solely focusing on scientific details. “It’s about the feeling at that precise moment, how it makes you feel emotionally,” he explains, adding that the experience often inspires newfound interest in stargazing.
Since launching Serydda in January 2025, Wyn Morgan has guided over 100 attendees through the wonders of the night sky, some returning multiple times to explore different dark sky locations. The growing popularity of such experiences is evident; a recent Booking.com survey indicates that 72% of travellers are considering visits to dark sky destinations for stargazing.
The Allure of Dark Skies
The appeal of dark skies and stargazing extends beyond mere aesthetics. “Breathing in the night sky is something totally different: cool, cold, fresh, and pure—like drinking water from a well,” Wyn Morgan reflects while surrounded by the tranquil Cambrian Mountains. The experience resonates deeply with individuals, particularly those from urban environments who often find themselves disconnected from nature.
Dani Robertson, a dark skies officer for Snowdonia National Park, highlights the pressing issue of light pollution, which affects an overwhelming 98% of the UK population. “We’re getting to the third or fourth generation of people who see very few stars, if any,” she states, illustrating the urgency of preserving places where the night sky remains visible. Robertson organises various events, including stargazing sessions and meteor watch parties, catering to those eager to reconnect with the cosmos.
The Science of Connection
Research indicates that engaging with nature, such as observing the night sky, can significantly enhance mental well-being. Annalisa Setti, a senior lecturer in applied psychology at University College Cork, explains that immersing oneself in natural settings fosters a state of “positive relaxation,” wherein individuals experience an optimal level of arousal. This connection to the natural world can mitigate rumination on negative thoughts, promoting emotional resilience.
However, these benefits are under threat as light pollution continues to rise. Robertson advocates for practical solutions, such as using dark-sky-friendly lighting and reducing unnecessary illumination, to preserve the night sky for future generations.
Standing atop a mountain at 02:00, the Milky Way emerges as a stunning cloud-like formation, captivating the group into a profound silence. “To be able to look at these things and appreciate the beauty, the majesty and the scale of it—it’s just amazing,” James remarks, encapsulating the transformative power of this celestial encounter.
Why it Matters
The resurgence of interest in stargazing and dark sky experiences reflects a broader desire for connection—to both the universe and our own humanity. In an era dominated by artificial light and urban living, initiatives like Wyn Morgan’s Serydda and Robertson’s dark sky events not only provide a gateway to celestial exploration but also serve as a vital reminder of our place in the cosmos. As we strive to protect these precious night skies, we ensure that future generations can also bask in the wonder of the stars, fostering a deeper appreciation for the natural world that surrounds us.
