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AstroLaPalma and La Palma as a Global Astrotourism Reference Some news stories go beyond numbers. AstroLaPalma has been featured on national television following its inclusion among the world’s leading astrotourism companies, according to a major international market report on astronomical tourism. I▶️ Video: AstroLaPalma featured on the news. TVC on 21/12/2025 An international recognition with La Palma at its heart The Stargazing Tourism Market Research Report 2033 highlights AstroLaPalma as one of the most relevant operators in the global astrotourism market. This recognition is not only about a single company. It places the spotlight on La Palma’s protected night sky, showing how science, sustainability and tourism can successfully work together. Why astrotourism is growing worldwide As shown in the video, travelers are increasingly looking for: Meaningful and authentic experiences Opportunities to learn and understand nature Destinations that protect their natural environment Astronomical tourism brings all these elements together. With one of the darkest and most protected skies in the world, La Palma has naturally become a leading destination. 14 years sharing the sky from La Palma Founded in 2011, AstroLaPalma has spent 14 years developing astrotourism experiences in La Palma, always combining scientific accuracy, education and respect for nature. Led by astrophysicist and science communicator Ana García, the company has played an active role in positioning the island as a global reference for astronomical tourism. Guided experiences under one of the world’s best skies The international report highlights guided experiences as the most in-demand segment of astrotourism—and the video shows exactly why. AstroLaPalma offers: Guided stargazing experiences Night sky interpretation walks Astrophotography workshops Visits to the Roque de los Muchachos Observatory Educational and outreach programs All activities are designed for the general public, combining accessibility with scientific rigor. A recognition built on a long-term trajectory This media appearance adds to

⭐ Christmas Gifts with Stars: Surprise Your Loved Ones with AstroLaPalma Gift Vouchers and Our Astronomy Shop If you are looking for a Christmas gift that is original, memorable and truly magical, AstroLaPalma has everything you need. This year, give the gift of stargazing experiences under one of the best skies in the world: La Palma, an island certified as a Starlight Reserve. Our gift vouchers are the perfect option for anyone who wants to enjoy something unique, inspiring and unforgettable… and you can personalise them with special items from our astronomy shop. At LaPalmaStars.com you’ll find gift vouchers for our most popular experiences: VIP stargazing tours, activities for couples, families or groups, and daytime visits to the Roque de los Muchachos Observatory. Each gift voucher can be sent by email, printed at home or delivered in a gift box. It’s the ideal way to surprise someone with an unforgettable night under a sky full of stars. If you want to make your gift even more special, you can add one of the astronomy accessories from our shop. Choose from a planisphere — perfect for learning how to navigate the night sky — to astronomy books, constellation keychains, planet-themed details and beautiful pieces of sterling silver jewellery inspired by the universe. They are the perfect complement to your gift voucher, turning it into a truly unique present. We also have official Gran Telescopio Canarias merchandise: T-shirts, hoodies, mugs, caps and tote bags. Giving astronomy is giving emotion, science, nature and a once-in-a-lifetime experience. This Christmas, choose a gift that truly shines. Choose AstroLaPalma and let our stars do the rest. Visit LaPalmaStars.com, explore our activities and discover our special collection of astronomical gifts. Make this holiday season cosmic!

AstroLaPalma ranks among the world’s leading astrotourism companies, according to the international report Stargazing Tourism Market Research Report 2033 by Growth Market Reports “We have very good news. This kind of recognition does not happen every day. We will keep working so that every time you visit La Palma you can take a little piece of its starry sky back home with you.” AstroLaPalma (LaPalmastars.com), a pioneering company in astronomical tourism in Spain and based on the island of La Palma (Canary Islands), consolidates its position as one of the most relevant and sought-after astrotourism operators worldwide, according to the international report Stargazing Tourism Market Research Report 2033. The study is produced by the specialized consultancy Growth Market Reports, a firm that provides market analysis to global companies such as Microsoft, Deloitte, Siemens Healthcare, Nestlé SA and Dassault Aviation. The report, prepared by a team of senior analysts in the tourism and scientific sectors, offers a detailed overview of the growth of the global astrotourism market, which reached 1.42 billion US dollars in 2024 and projects an accelerated annual growth rate of 8.1% to reach 2.75 billion US dollars by 2033. It is one of the most rigorous international studies on the sector, with more than 275 pages, 266 tables and figures, and segmented analysis by region, age group, booking channel and tour type, including stargazing tours, observatory visits and dark-sky travel. AstroLaPalma: 14 years of leadership in a growing astrotourism market In this global context of sustained growth, AstroLaPalma —founded in 2011 by Ana García, one of the most experienced professionals in the sector in Spain— stands out as one of the companies with the longest track record and strongest international recognition in astrotourism in La Palma. García is the only Spanish professional with direct experience in the two

Course: Promoting and Developing Astrotourism Through Telescope Activities On November 18 and 19, 2025, La Palma will host the training course “Promoting and Developing Astrotourism Through Telescope Use and Night-Sky Activities,” a hands-on workshop designed for guides and sky lovers  who want to professionalize their role in astrotourism. Under one of the clearest and darkest skies in the world, participants will learn essential telescope handling techniques, night-sky observation skills, and how to plan astronomical tourism activities in natural settings and astronomical viewpoints. Course Highlights The training includes key topics for designing memorable stargazing experiences in La Palma: Basic telescope setup and configuration. Planning stargazing routes and night-sky photography sessions. Interpretive and educational tools for tourism professionals. Designing astronomical experiences in protected areas and certified viewpoints. This course is ideal for tour guides, nature interpreters, and astronomy enthusiasts seeking to deliver safe, inspiring, and Starlight-certified experiences under the stars. The course is organised by Universidad de La Laguna. Dirección académica: Carlos Fernández Hernández. Profesor contratado Doctor, Departamento de Economía Aplicada y Métodos Cuantitativos de la Universidad de La Laguna. Astrotourism Training: A Path Toward Excellence Known as the “Beautiful Island”, La Palma is a world reference in sustainable astrotourism, thanks to its sky protection laws and collaboration between tourism businesses, institutions, and scientific centers such as the Roque de los Muchachos Observatory. Training in this field not only enhances the quality of activities but also contributes to the professionalization of the sector, positioning La Palma as a global benchmark for stargazing and astronomy tourism. Registration now open: Registration Link La Palma, a Classroom Beneath the Stars Learning and working under the Starlight skies of La Palma is a unique opportunity. This course allows you to connect science, passion, and discovery — turning the night sky into your classroom and inspiration. Astrotourism

Starmus 2025 starts now: La Palma Becomes the Global Epicenter of Astronomy and Science What is Starmus? Starmus Festival starts now in La Palma! Starmus is one of the most important festivals in the world, bringing together science, art, music, and the exploration of the universe. Created to make scientific knowledge accessible to the public and celebrate advances in space exploration, it has featured prominent figures such as Stephen Hawking, Neil Armstrong, and Brian May (astrophysicist and guitarist of Queen). In 2025, Starmus will be held for the first time in La Palma, an internationally recognized destination for its commitment to the conservation of the night sky and the development of sustainable astrotourism. Starmus starts now in La Palma. April 25-28, 2025.                               What does the festival include? The Starmus Festival offers a unique program that combines: Scientific lectures with Nobel laureates, astronauts, and renowned science communicators. Live concerts with international artists. Stargazing sessions, workshops, exhibitions, and meetings with astronomy experts. Educational activities for youth and families. Special events in unique natural settings, such as the Roque de los Muchachos Observatory. Starmus 2025 Activities Program The program includes a week of scientific and cultural activities at various locations on La Palma, including: Talks by experts from NASA, ESA, and scientists from the Institute of Astrophysics of the Canary Islands (IAC). Live music performances with international artists. Astronomical observation activities in areas certified as Starlight Tourist Destinations. Science outreach events in public squares, auditoriums, and educational centers. You can check the full program at the following link:Official Starmus La Palma 2025 Program                             Starmus and Sky Conservation La Palma's selection as the festival venue

A Magical Event: The Conjunction of Venus and Saturn on January 18 The universe continuously surprises us with its breathtaking spectacles, and this January 18 brings a magical event: the conjunction of Venus and Saturn on January 18. This extraordinary phenomenon will showcase the close alignment of these two celestial bodies, creating a stunning display in the night sky. Whether you're an astronomy enthusiast or simply someone who loves to marvel at the wonders of the cosmos, this rare conjunction promises to be an unforgettable experience. Don't miss this opportunity to witness one of nature's most awe-inspiring events.   What is a planetary conjunction? Planetary conjunctions occur when two planets appear to come very close together in the sky, as seen from Earth. Even though they are millions of kilometres apart in space, their relative position creates the illusion that they are very close. These events are special because they remind us of the constant cosmic dance in which we are immersed. Details of the Venus-Saturn conjunction event: Don't miss it! - Date: 18 January 2024 - Planets involved: Venus and Saturn - Observing time: Just after sunset - Direction: Facing southwest Book here: https://lapalmastars.com/astro-eventos/ At this conjunction, Venus and Saturn will be about two degrees apart, which is about the width of a coin held outstretched. Venus, known as the ‘morning star’, will shine brightly with its characteristic white hue. Saturn, on the other hand, will offer a more subtle contrast with its golden colour. How to observe this conjunction of Venus and Saturn? With the naked eye This event is completely visible without the need for specialised equipment. From anywhere with a clear horizon, simply find a dark place away from city lights and look to the southwest shortly after sunset. With binoculars or telescopes For those who

This Christmas season, the heavens invite us not only to look up, but also to reflect on an event that has fascinated generations: the star of Bethlehem. Recounted in Matthew's Gospel, this mysterious celestial body guided the Magi to the birthplace of Jesus. Although more than 2000 years have passed, the debate about the nature of this phenomenon continues. What could the star of Bethlehem have been? Astronomers and historians have put forward several theories to explain what might have inspired the story of the star of Bethlehem. Among the most widely discussed possibilities are: A planetary conjunction: some believe that an unusual alignment of planets, such as Jupiter and Saturn, may have created a particularly bright point of light in the sky. These conjunctions occur at intervals of centuries and may have been seen as a divine sign at the time. A supernova or nova: The explosion of a star in the night sky would have been an impressive and clearly visible event. However, there are no clear astronomical records of such a phenomenon in the years around the birth of Jesus. A comet: Comets were interpreted as omens in many ancient cultures. However, this theory is also debated, as comets were also sometimes associated with negative events.   A parallel to the present day: Venus and Saturn This year, close to Christmas, we will witness an event reminiscent of those ancient stories: the conjunction of Venus and Saturn on 18 January. Although not exactly at Christmas, this modern-day ‘star’, formed by the visual proximity of two bright planets, evokes the kind of awe that might have inspired skywatchers two millennia ago. Venus, known for its intense brightness, and Saturn, with its golden hue, can be seen almost side by side in the sky, creating a spectacular image. Although