Andorra Comapedrosa Astronomy Festival Expands to Three Nights with Eclipse Prep

The fourth Andorra Comapedrosa Astronomy Festival, now expanded to three nights from June 12 to 14, kicked off with an inaugural session before resuming main activities over the weekend in La Massana parish.

Organised by Mizar Xperience for the Catalan side and Storytelling for the Andorran component, the event blends science, nature, and education tailored to different age groups, from adult-focused talks to children's workshops. It reaffirms La Massana's dual certification as a Starlight Tourist Destination and Reserve—a distinction shared by only about 20 regions worldwide. Astronomer Aleix Roig highlighted ongoing efforts to protect the Comapedrosa area, including the gradual rollout of environmentally friendly lighting.

Nighttime highlights centre on Friday's symbolic lights-out in Arinsal village, which reduces light pollution to enable views of deep-sky objects like galaxies and nebulae through six automated telescopes managed by experienced specialists. From 11pm, guided naked-eye sessions explore constellations, the Milky Way, and their mythology. Local restaurants are joining in with cosmic-themed menus and tapas, while online registration for observations and constellation routes offers discounts at participating businesses.

Saturday morning features eclipse expert Josep Massalles delivering a talk on the solar eclipse, followed by an explanatory show. Safe solar viewing uses certified filter glasses, to be reused for the main event on August 12, 2026, when up to 99% of the sun will be obscured in the area. A new dawn yoga session connects wellness with the surroundings. This year's festival launches preparations for that historic eclipse, with a festive gathering already in planning.

A €2 solidarity wristband grants entry and serves as a voucher for Arinsal establishments, supporting the local economy. Favourable weather forecasts promise optimal visibility, aligning with La Massana's Starlight strategy for tourism, dark-sky protection, environmental awareness, and outreach.