Astro Tourism

Astro Tourism explores the fast-emerging field of astronomical and dark sky tourism, showing how stargazing, night sky culture, and space related heritage connect science, sustainability, and tourism to create meaningful, educational, and transformative experiences.

Drawing on mixed methods research including global literature, case studies from established and emerging dark sky destinations, and interviews, the book examines the trends, motivations, policies, and challenges. It reveals how astro tourism strengthens rural economies, supports scientific literacy, and promotes environmentally responsible travel, while also addressing barriers such as commercialisation, inconsistent regulations, and infrastructure gaps. Presenting destinations across Asia, Africa, Latin America, and beyond, the book highlights how communities, technology, and policy contribute to responsible dark sky experiences.

This timely book offers students, researchers and academics a structured comprehensive critical account of astro tourism linked to sustainability, destination development, and visitor experience.

Suyash Pawar is an Assistant Professor at the Department of Travel and Tourism Management, University of Ladakh.

Ajay Kumar is Assistant Professor in the Chandigarh College of Hospitality at CGC Landran, Mohali, Punjab.

Sanjeev Kumar is a Professor cum HOD, School of Hotel Management and Tourism, Lovely Professional University, Punjab, India.

Kuldeep Singh currently serves as Assistant Professor in Amity School of Hospitality, Amity University, Haryana, India.

Ann Suwaree Ashton, Ph.D., is an Associate Professor at the Graduate School of Tourism Management, National Institute of Development Administration (NIDA), Thailand.