Three Chilean Astrotouristic Observatories Earn Starlight Certification for Dark Sky Commitment

The Starlight Foundation has officially certified three prominent astronomical centers in Chile’s Coquimbo Region as Starlight Tourist Observatories: Mamalluca (Vicuña), Collowara (Andacollo), and Cruz del Sur (Combarbalá). This recognition—part of the Starlight Stellar Parks modality—highlights their dedication to preserving the night sky, their value as educational tourism facilities, and their integration with the region’s natural and cultural heritage.

With this certification, the observatories join the international Starlight network and become leading examples of sustainable astrotourism in South America. All three have signed the Starlight Declaration and endorsed SDG 18, which promotes the night sky as a fundamental human right.

Mamalluca: A Pioneer of Astrotourism in Chile

Located just 9 km northwest of Vicuña in the Elqui Valley, Mamalluca Observatory was Chile’s first amateur observatory with a tourism focus, inaugurated in 1994. Operated by the Municipality of Vicuña, it features a planetarium, interactive exhibition rooms, and professional telescopes such as the Meade LX200 and the Solar Max 60 mm.

Mamalluca plays an active role in the Municipal Tourism Corporation, which brings together over 130 tourism businesses, contributing significantly to Vicuña’s status as a leading astrotourism destination in Latin America.

Mamalluca Observatory

Collowara: A Window to the Universe in Andacollo

In the heart of Andacollo, Collowara Observatory offers panoramic 360° views thanks to its elevated location. Equipped with 10", 14", and 16" telescopes, the site is purpose-built for night-sky observation and astrotourism activities throughout the year.

Managed by the Municipality of Andacollo and registered with SERNATUR, Collowara stands out for its community engagement and scientific outreach. Its calendar includes creative public events like the “Planet Parties” and “Welcome Jupiter” nights that blend science, culture, and fun.

Collowara Observatory

Cruz del Sur: Science, Architecture, and Skies in Combarbalá

Set in the municipality of Combarbalá, Cruz del Sur Observatory impresses with its four astronomical domes and unique architectural layout, featuring an open-air amphitheater and a multimedia hall. Its collaborations with institutions like CEAZA, AURA, and the National Seismological Center reinforce its educational and interdisciplinary approach.

Cruz del Sur is not only a gateway to the stars, but also to Earth and atmospheric sciences, making it a key reference point in Chile’s growing astrotourism sector.

Cruz del Sur Observatory

Advancing the Protection of Chile’s Night Skies

The addition of these three observatories to the Starlight Tourist Observatories network strengthens Chile’s position as a world-class dark sky destination, particularly in the Coquimbo Region, known globally for its exceptional sky clarity and rich astronomical tradition.

The Starlight Foundation celebrates this achievement and applauds the commitment of these institutions to exploring the night sky with responsibility, scientific rigor, and a vision for the future.

More info: www.turismoregiondecoquimbo.cl