The sky of La Palma
The island of La Palma can boast of having one of the clearest skies on the planet and at its summit, the Roque de los Muchachos, is located one of the three most important astrophysical observatories in the world. There is the Gran Telescopio Canarias (GTC), which is currently the largest optical and infrared telescope in the world.
There are several ways to fully enjoy the sky of La Palma. You can discover it with the naked eye thanks to our network of astronomical observation points, but this just the beginning. Go even deeper into the secrets of the universe with astronomical observations and other specialized services offered by our local companies. Visit the fascinating Roque de los Muchachos Visitor Center and learn about the work of astronomers through daytime guided tours of the telescopes at the Astrophysical Observatory.
Our Advice
We recommend booking astronomical observations or any other services from astrotourism companies, as well as the guided tour of the Astrophysical Observatory, as far in advance of your trip as possible.
La Palma Star Island Website
La Palma
STARMUS Festival
La Palma
Some Milestones in Astronomy in La Palma
1985: Inauguration of the Roque de los Muchachos Astrophysical Observatory
1988: Adoption of the Canary Islands Sky Law, a worldwide pioneer in protecting the quality of the night sky.
2007: Several international organizations sign the World Declaration in Defense of the Night Sky and the Right to Observe the Stars, also known as the La Palma Declaration.
2009: Inauguration of the Gran Telescopio Canarias (GTC)
2012: La Palma is declared the first Starlight Reserve in the world and a Starlight Tourist Destination.
