In a world where a clear, dark night sky with visible stars has become a rarity for many people, the Styrian tourist region of Schladming-Dachstein is setting an innovative example.
While an international study estimates an annual increase in light pollution in Europe of approximately six percent, the Sölktäler Nature Park is dedicated to this phenomenon. Six specially created "Star Spots" are designed to offer visitors and locals alike the opportunity to immerse themselves in the fascinating world of the night sky. This project aims to create a unique experience that will enhance the region's appeal and raise awareness of the beauty and importance of an undisturbed night sky.
The increasing brightness of the night: A global challenge
The problem of light pollution is a growing global concern. The natural, dark night sky, once a given everywhere, is no longer found in many densely populated areas, but increasingly also in rural regions. Artificial light sources from cities, streetlights, industrial facilities, and advertising billboards radiate uncontrolled into the sky, obscuring the faint light of the stars. This leads to fewer and fewer celestial bodies being visible to the naked eye.
International studies support this trend with disturbing figures. Light pollution in Europe, for example, is increasing by approximately six percent annually. This means that the starry sky is losing luminosity over ever-larger areas, thus disappearing from human perception. The consequences are manifold, ranging from the impairment of astronomical research to subtle but significant effects on human well-being and culture. A clear starry sky has always been a source of inspiration, orientation, and contemplation. Its disappearance represents a loss of quality of life and a piece of natural heritage.
Schladming-Dachstein as a lighthouse for night sky preservation
Amidst this global development, the Schladming-Dachstein tourist region is positioning itself as a pioneer in the preservation of the natural night sky. The Sölktäler Nature Park, an area still relatively unaffected by light pollution, has taken on this task with particular commitment. The "Star Spots" project is a central component of this initiative.
These unique sites were created at six select locations in the region, designed to maximize the experience of the night sky. Each of these sites offers a different perspective on the universe, allowing visitors to see things normally hidden in the city lights. To further enhance the experience, all star sites are equipped with astronomical maps that show the respective night sky and facilitate orientation. These are complemented by rotating star charts that allow visitors to track the position of the stars depending on the date and time.
Gabriele Trinker, Managing Director of the Sölktäler Nature Park, explains the concept: "These sites are intended to be used specifically for stargazing without disturbing wildlife and other natural creatures. Our goal is for visitors to be able to experience the starry sky at selected locations without having to wander around the area in an uncoordinated manner." This underscores the responsible approach that reconciles the observation of the night sky with the protection of the natural environment. Consciously directing visitor flows helps protect fragile ecosystems and minimize disturbances to native wildlife.
Unique experience for guests and locals
The Star Places initiative has also been enthusiastically received by the regional tourism industry. Mathias Schattleitner, Managing Director of the Schladming-Dachstein Tourism Region, is enthusiastic about the project: "The Star Places are a true asset to our region. They offer a special experience for guests and locals that simply doesn't exist in this form in the big city, and thus they contribute to further enhancing the attractiveness of our region."
Indeed, an unobstructed view of the night sky offers an experience that is rarely possible in urban areas, where millions of lights obscure the view of the Milky Way and most of the stars. For city dwellers, this often represents a completely new and fascinating experience, a stark contrast to their everyday lives. It is an offering that promotes peace and reflection and rekindles fascination with the universe. This can be a valuable addition to the region's existing tourism offering, which has so far been known primarily for its winter sports and alpine landscapes. The project will enable the region to position itself as a year-round destination with a broader range of activities.
The star sites are located at strategically selected locations that ensure both easy accessibility and minimal light pollution. These locations include:
- St. Nikolai at the Sacristan's House
- Stein/Enns near the Rosary Church
- Mitterberg near Pürcherhof
- In the center of Aich
- House in the Ennstal near Birnberg
- Ramsau am Dachstein near Walcherhof
Expert support and events for in-depth study
To further enhance the stargazing experience and impart expert knowledge to visitors, special events are offered in collaboration with experts. Stefan Wallner, one of Austria's leading experts on light pollution, plays a key role in these events. His expertise allows visitors to explore the starry sky under professional guidance and learn more about the phenomena of the universe.
Two dates are currently planned, giving interested parties the opportunity to delve deeper into the topic:
- 19. September 2025: As part of the “Long Night of Nature Parks”, an event will take place at Großsölk Castle.
- December 04, 2025: A “sky night tour” is offered at the Stein/Enns church.
Registration is required for both events, but admission is free. These offerings not only contribute to knowledge transfer but also promote community experience and appreciation for the natural night sky. Such educational opportunities are crucial for raising awareness of the problem of light pollution and initiating long-term behavioral changes.
The significance of the dark night sky beyond astronomy
The natural night sky is not only important for astronomy. An undisturbed cycle of day and night is also fundamentally important for many living beings, including humans. The biorhythm of many animals is controlled by the natural light-dark cycle. Excessive nighttime brightness can lead to disruptions in reproduction, foraging, and migration. In humans, too, an undisturbed sleep-wake rhythm plays an important role in health and well-being.
Furthermore, protecting the night sky holds significant tourism potential. More and more regions around the world are recognizing the value of dark skies and developing offerings such as "star parks" or "dark sky destinations." These attract a specific clientele seeking experiences away from mass tourism and willing to travel for authenticity and tranquility. Schladming-Dachstein, with its starlit spots, is positioning itself in this growing segment, thus opening up new guest groups.
The initiative is thus an example of how a tourism region can offer its guests added value and make an important contribution to the preservation of a valuable natural phenomenon by emphasizing its natural features and through innovative offers.
The "Star Spots" project in the Schladming-Dachstein tourism region represents a remarkable response to the global increase in light pollution. By providing visitors and locals alike with access to an unobstructed view of the night sky, it not only creates a unique tourist experience but also contributes to the preservation of an essential natural phenomenon. The combination of accessible observation sites, informative tools, and expertly guided events positions Schladming-Dachstein as a pioneer in night sky conservation. This commitment underscores the growing importance of the unobstructed night sky as a valuable resource and a unique selling point for destinations that prioritize authenticity and nature experiences.
