Astronomical Tour: Andean Cosmology, Telescope Observation and Astrophotography (Shared)
Discover the Atacama night sky through telescope observation, astrophotography and Andean cosmology, with a welcoming cocktail under the stars.
Journey details
We will pick you up at your accommodation in San Pedro de Atacama and travel away from the lights of town to enjoy the desert night sky. Upon arrival, we welcome the group with a cocktail including wine, pisco sour, hot drinks and non-alcoholic options. Alcoholic beverages are served only to adults. The group is then divided into smaller groups that rotate between telescope observation and astrophotography, so every participant can enjoy both activities. During telescope observation, the guide introduces the celestial objects visible that night, which may include planets, star clusters, nebulae, constellations and other features of the seasonal sky. The experience closes with a talk about the stars, Andean cosmology and the relationship between the sky, nature and desert culture, followed by a musical moment under the stars. Visible objects and photographic backgrounds vary according to the season, lunar phase and weather conditions. No entrance fee is required.
Pickup range: 19:30 - 20:00
Returning time: 23:00
Itinerary
Night Transfer to the Observation Site: Pick-up from your accommodation in San Pedro de Atacama and transfer away from the lights of town to begin the astronomical experience. Welcome Cocktail under the Stars: Upon arrival at the observation site, enjoy a welcoming cocktail with wine, pisco sour, hot drinks and non-alcoholic options while your eyes begin to adjust to the darkness of the desert. Alcoholic beverages are served only to adults. Telescope Observation: At the telescope station, observe and learn about the celestial objects visible that night, such as planets, star clusters, nebulae and seasonal constellations. Astrophotography Session: Take part in an astrophotography session under the Atacama sky. The groups rotate between photography and telescope observation so that every traveler participates in both activities. Andean Cosmology and Musical Closing: End the experience with a talk about the stars, the Andean interpretation of the night sky and the relationship between the cosmos, nature and desert culture, followed by a musical moment under the stars. Return to San Pedro: After the astronomical activities, return to San Pedro de Atacama.
Recommendations for your trip
Wear very warm layered clothing, including a thermal base layer, jacket, hat, gloves, warm socks and closed shoes. Desert temperatures can drop considerably at night, even during warmer months. Bring water and avoid using white flashlights or camera flash during the observation. The celestial objects and photographic background vary depending on the season, lunar phase and weather conditions.
Package Details
What’s Included in Your Package
Cocktail
Photography
Telescope
Shared Service
Pick Up
Drop-Off
Transportation
Photo showcase
Experience the Beauty of Astronomical Tour: Andean Cosmology, Telescope Observation and Astrophotography (Shared)
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FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Does everyone participate in telescope observation and astrophotography?
Yes. The group is divided into two smaller groups, which rotate between the telescope observation and astrophotography stations. This allows every participant to enjoy both activities.
Is an entrance fee required?
No. The experience does not require an entrance fee. Transportation, the welcome cocktail, telescope observation, astrophotography, the cosmology talk and the musical show are included.
What happens if the sky is cloudy?
Astronomical observation depends on weather and sky conditions. If conditions prevent the experience from operating normally, Molantur will contact passengers with the available alternatives.
Will I always see the Milky Way and the same celestial objects?
No. The night sky changes throughout the year, and visibility also depends on the lunar phase and weather conditions. The guide adapts the observation to the most interesting celestial objects visible on the date of the tour.
Other Questions
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Cancellations made more than 48 hours before departure receive an 80% refund. Cancellations made less than 48 hours before departure are non-refundable. The experience is subject to weather and sky conditions.