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In the tranquil expanse of rural Wales, enthusiasts of the cosmos are discovering a profound connection with the universe through innovative stargazing experiences. As light pollution continues to obscure the night sky for many, astrotourism ventures like Serydda are gaining traction, offering visitors the chance to bathe in the brilliance of the Milky Way and discover the celestial wonders above.
A Journey into the Dark
Under the vast Ceredigion sky, an evening of astronomical exploration begins in the village of Llanddewi-Brefi. Initially shrouded in clouds, the stars gradually reveal themselves, transforming the landscape into a breathtaking celestial panorama. Accompanied by avid stargazers Siân and James Harrison, I am guided by Dafydd Wyn Morgan, the founder of Serydda, an astrotourism company devoted to enhancing the stargazing experience.
As we lie on blankets, gazing upwards, the conversation turns to Jupiter, one of the most luminous planets visible from Earth. Using a green laser pointer, Wyn Morgan highlights the iconic Orion’s Belt, while James shares his admiration for the constellation, noting its significance in the ongoing birth of stars. “I’ll focus on something over 150 million light years away,” he reflects. “It’s a perspective that’s hard to grasp.”
This moment of connection not only allows us to witness the same sky that our ancestors once admired but also fosters a sense of calm and wonder.
The Essence of Star Bathing
Wyn Morgan’s star bathing sessions offer more than just a visual feast. By integrating the use of a smart telescope and storytelling, he creates an immersive experience reminiscent of forest bathing—a practice originating in Japan in the 1980s. “It’s about the emotional impact of the moment,” he explains. “This isn’t a scientific lesson; it’s an invitation to feel the cosmos.”
His sessions have garnered significant interest, with a recent Booking.com survey indicating that 72% of travellers are intrigued by dark sky destinations that offer such experiences. Since launching Serydda in January 2025, Wyn Morgan has welcomed over 100 participants, many returning multiple times to explore different dark sky locations.
Embracing the Night Sky
Our exploration takes us to Llyn Teifi in the Cambrian mountains, where the atmosphere is charged with excitement. Wyn Morgan describes the experience of breathing in the night air as something extraordinary—“cool, fresh, and pure, like drinking water from a well.” This deep connection to the natural world is echoed by Dani Robertson, a dark skies officer for Snowdonia National Park, who highlights the importance of experiencing the night sky, especially for individuals living in urban areas where light pollution prevails.
Robertson notes that 98% of the UK population is subjected to light-polluted skies, leading to generations of people growing up without witnessing the splendour of stars. To counteract this, she organises a variety of stargazing events, from mobile observatories to night hikes, all aimed at rekindling humanity’s inherent fascination with the cosmos.
“Every event has a waiting list,” she observes. “People are eager for a glimpse of the stars, and it can be a transformative experience.”
The Psychological Benefits of Stargazing
The therapeutic effects of nature are well-documented, and stargazing is no exception. Annalisa Setti, a senior lecturer in applied psychology and sustainability, explains that observing nature can lead to a state of optimal arousal—where individuals feel neither bored nor overwhelmed, resulting in a sensation of positive relaxation. Furthermore, engaging with the night sky can diminish the activity of brain areas associated with negative rumination, promoting a healthier mental state.
However, the benefits of stargazing are under threat. Robertson warns that increasing light pollution not only disrupts our connection to the cosmos but also affects circadian rhythms and wildlife. The solution lies in simple changes—adopting dark-sky friendly lighting and being mindful of our night-time habits.
Why it Matters
The allure of the night sky is not merely about aesthetic appreciation; it encapsulates a deep-seated human desire for connection and understanding. As astrotourism grows in popularity, it serves as a reminder of our place in the universe and the importance of preserving our ability to witness the stars. In a world increasingly dominated by artificial light, initiatives like Serydda and the efforts of dark skies officers play a crucial role in rekindling our relationship with the cosmos, fostering a sense of wonder and unity with the natural world.
