"Like the moon's shadow sweeping across the globe during a total solar eclipse, astronomy-focused tourism is taking the world by storm. And in 2026, there are plenty of celestial reasons to travel. You've likely already heard of the August 2026 total solar eclipse, which is undoubtedly the year's marquee event, but you can also travel for everything from rocket launches to meteor showers. These are the astronomy events that can turn trips into once-in-a-lifetime experiences-and where to go to see them at their best."
"Okay, this one isn't quite an astronomy event, but fans of the night sky might want to check it out nonetheless. NASA plans to take one step closer to returning to the moon in 2026 with the launch of Artemis II, the first crewed launch of the Artemis program, which will take astronauts on a lunar flyby. It's scheduled to take place at Florida's Kennedy Space Center as soon as February 5, although that date is subject to change."
Astronomy-focused tourism is expanding globally, offering travelers opportunities to witness launches, eclipses, and meteor showers in 2026. Key 2026 highlights include NASA's Artemis II crewed lunar-flyby launch from Florida's Kennedy Space Center around February 5, an annular solar eclipse visible only from Antarctica on February 17, and a marquee total solar eclipse in August. The Space Coast provides communal launch-watching on beaches and parks, plus local attractions like bioluminescent kayaking, wildlife refuges, and classic beach towns, and visitors are advised to build extra days because launch dates often shift. Annular eclipses produce a "ring of fire" when the moon does not fully cover the sun, requiring expedition travel to the southernmost continent.
Read at Conde Nast Traveler
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