In the serene landscapes of rural Wales, a growing movement is inviting individuals to reconnect with the cosmos through immersive stargazing experiences. With the assistance of expert guides, enthusiasts are discovering the awe-inspiring beauty of the night sky, far removed from the encroaching light pollution that plagues urban environments. Recently, a group of stargazers ventured to Llanddewi-Brefi in Ceredigion, where they were captivated by the wonders of the Milky Way and the stories of the stars.
The Allure of the Night Sky
As the sun sets and darkness envelops the landscape, those gathered begin their celestial journey. It is not until 22:30 that the first stars pierce through the clouds, creating a breathtaking panorama. Among the group are Siân and James Harrison, avid stargazers from Cardiff, who have made the trip to this picturesque village to immerse themselves in the splendour of the heavens.
Under the guidance of Dafydd Wyn Morgan, owner of the astrotourism company Serydda, the participants lie on blankets, gazing up at the vast expanse above. Wyn Morgan employs a green laser pointer to illuminate notable celestial objects, highlighting Orion’s Belt and the planet Jupiter, one of the brightest in the night sky. As James notes, the vast distances of space can be overwhelming; “I’ll focus on something and it’ll be 150 million light years away. I can’t quantify that,” he remarks, capturing the profound sense of wonder that stargazing evokes.
The Rising Popularity of Astrotourism
Wyn Morgan’s star bathing sessions blend education with meditation. Participants not only observe the stars but also engage with the myths and legends tied to these celestial bodies. This approach mirrors the concept of forest bathing, which originated in Japan in the 1980s and has evolved into various wellness practices. “It’s about the feeling at that precise moment,” Wyn Morgan explains, stressing the emotional resonance of stargazing over scientific knowledge.
Since launching Serydda in January 2025, following years of event organisation with the late astrophotographer Alyn Wallace, Wyn Morgan has welcomed 107 participants to his workshops. Many return multiple times, eager to explore different dark sky locations. A recent Booking.com survey of 27,000 travellers revealed that 72% are considering visits to such destinations for stargazing experiences.
Nature’s Role in Wellbeing
The allure of the night sky extends beyond mere visual beauty; it serves as a balm for the spirit. At Llyn Teifi in the Cambrian mountains, Wyn Morgan describes the sensory experience of the night air, likening it to “breathing in the night sky,” which he describes as “cool, cold, fresh and pure—like drinking water from a well.” The emotional connections formed during these stargazing sessions can lead to profound feelings of joy, particularly for those who have never before experienced true darkness.
Dani Robertson, a dark skies officer for Snowdonia National Park, emphasises the significance of this connection to nature, pointing out that 98% of the UK population resides in areas affected by light pollution. “We’re getting to the third or fourth generation of people who see very few stars, if any,” she explains. The rarity of such experiences drives individuals from urban areas, such as London, to seek out these dark sky events, offering them a unique opportunity to witness the cosmos.
The Threat of Light Pollution
Despite the growing interest in stargazing, the beauty of the night sky faces significant threats. Light pollution continues to rise, disrupting not only human circadian rhythms but also affecting various species. Robertson advocates for simple solutions, such as using dark-sky-friendly bulbs and turning off unnecessary lights, to help preserve the clarity of the night sky for future generations.
As the group stands under the stars at 02:00, they are rewarded with an awe-inspiring sight: the Milky Way stretches across the sky, a swirling mass of gas, dust, and countless stars. The collective silence speaks volumes as the group contemplates the vastness of the universe. “To be able to look at these things and appreciate the beauty—the majesty and the scale of it—is just amazing,” James remarks, encapsulating the transformative power of this experience.
Why it Matters
The resurgence of interest in stargazing not only highlights humanity’s intrinsic connection to the cosmos but also underscores the urgent need to combat light pollution. As urban dwellers seek refuge in the darkened skies of rural locations, it becomes essential to foster awareness about preserving these natural wonders. Initiatives like Serydda are pivotal in reconnecting people with the night sky, encouraging a greater appreciation for the universe and the delicate balance required to maintain our connection to it. The implications of light pollution extend beyond aesthetics; they challenge our relationship with nature and our understanding of the cosmos, making it imperative to act now to safeguard our celestial heritage.