La Massana to Host 2027 International Starlight Meeting

La Massana parish will host the 2027 International Starlight Meeting, a key global gathering for territories, experts, and professionals focused on protecting the night sky and advancing astrotourism.

The Fundación Starlight announced the decision, praising the parish's commitment to preserving dark skies and its ongoing efforts to promote stargazing tourism. The foundation highlighted La Massana's candidacy for its consistent, determined approach to the initiative. Participants will include representatives from certified Starlight destinations, scientists, specialized guides, tourism businesses, and organizations dedicated to maintaining sky quality and developing observation-based experiences.

Local officials welcomed the news enthusiastically. Tourism councillor Mònica Solé described hosting the event as "a great opportunity to keep positioning La Massana as a destination linked to nature and sustainability." She noted it would enable experience-sharing with sites worldwide and showcase the area's potential for night sky viewing.

The parish maintains dual Starlight certifications as a Tourist Destination and Natural Reserve. Minor consul and Environment Commission president Roger Fité emphasized the value of dark skies for biodiversity, culture, and public wellbeing. "Hosting the International Starlight Meeting recognizes our ongoing work to protect this essential resource," he said. The event marks the 20th anniversary of the Palma Declaration, an international pledge for night sky quality.

Plans call for combining the meeting with the annual Andorra Comapedrosa Astronomy Festival, organized by the commune, to expand programming and establish La Massana as a leading astrotourism hub. Solé envisioned it as "a celebration of the night sky blending scientific outreach, family activities, and professional exchanges."

The Fundación Starlight has notified its partners and official channels of the parish's selection.