Together with Chile and Hawaii,
Namibia is considered to be one of the top three destinations for stargazing in
the world. With its generally cloudless night sky, especially in the dry winter
months, minimal contamination by artificial light and air pollution, and
excellent view of the southern constellations, Namibia has superb stargazing
conditions. As such it is favored by professional and amateur astronomers
alike.
Namibia was chosen as the best site
for the multi-national Max Planck High Energy Stereoscopic System experiment
(H.E.S.S.), now fully operational on Farm Göllschau near the Gamsberg. Many
lodges have medium-sized telescopes (up to 16" diameter) for use by
guests, and provide novice stargazing guests with a laymen’s introduction to
astrology.
The Khomas Hochland/Gamsberg area west
of Windhoek has the third-clearest, least light-polluted sky in the world. An
impressive 'farm' of telescopes and other equipment is maintained by the
German-based International Amateur Observatory at the guest farm Hakos on top
of the Gamsberg Pass, two hours' drive away from Windhoek.
SOLNA, Namibia’s first space
observation learning center, is a company that deals with astronomy education,
astrophotography, telescope sales and stargazing tourism
Space Observation Learning Namibia (SOLNA)
P.O. Box 86828
Eros, Windhoek
Tel. +264 81 475 6455
solna@mweb.com.na
www.solna.com.na