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Under a sky of stars: the Astronomical Corridor of Jaén

Imagine this scene: deep in the mountains of Jaén, far from the glare of the cities and the daily hustle and bustle, the sky opens up in an infinite blanket of stars. With astonishing clarity, the Milky Way crosses the sky, constellations are sharp, and planets, nebulae and clusters take centre stage. That experience, that connection with the universe, is possible in the Astronomical Corridor of Jaén: a pioneering project that unites science, tourism and nature in four mountains with exceptional skies.

This corridor is not only a destination for those who love astronomy: it represents a strategy to promote sustainable rural development, to preserve the night sky as a universal heritage and to offer a new tourist dimension that arouses wonder, learning and admiration. Below, we explore its origin, its objectives, its experiences, recommended sites, how a sky is certified as a Starlight, its ecological importance and what is expected in the future.

1. What is the Astronomical Corridor of Jaén

The Astronomical Corridor of Jaén is a tourist, scientific and environmental network that connects four regions certified as Starlight Reserves: Sierra Sur de Jaén, Sierra Mágina, Sierra de Cazorla and Sierra de Segura. In total, it covers approximately 6,067 km² with skies of exceptional quality for astronomical observation.

This project arises from the cooperation between the Rural Development Groups of the four regions involved (Sierra Sur, Sierra de Segura, Sierra Mágina and Sierra de Cazorla), with coordination from the GDR Sierra Sur de Jaén, and with funding from the European Union (through the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development, EAFRD) and the Junta de Andalucía.

The Corridor aims to become the first astronomical corridor in the world to integrate several rural territories under the same focus of dark sky and scientific tourism.

Principles and objectives

The project is based on a series of principles and objectives that intertwine conservation, science, culture and territorial development. Its goals include:

• Protect and conserve the night sky, maintaining optimal dark conditions and reducing light pollution.

• Guarantee the inalienable right of humanity to observe the stars, recognizing that dark skies are common heritage.

• To promote astrotourism as a driver of sustainable development in rural areas, generating economic opportunities, local employment and tourism diversification.

• Integrate astronomy with other territorial values: cultural heritage, nature, gastronomy, hiking trails, archaeology, etc

• Contribute to climate change adaptation and mitigation, as lighting management and nightscape preservation help reduce environmental impacts.

To turn these ideas into concrete actions, the project has designed a comprehensive plan that includes: identification of observation points, design of astronomical tourist experiences, training of specialized guides, signposting of night trails, dissemination in schools, astrophotography workshops, an official website with resources and an astrotourism guide of the corridor.

In addition, as part of the project, the regions involved have obtained or renewed their certification as Starlight Reserves (Sierra Sur since 2014, and in 2024 Sierra Mágina, Sierra de Cazorla and Sierra de Segura).

2. What is a Starlight Reserve?

To understand the value of the Broker, it is essential to know the concept of Starlight Reserve.

Concept and certification

A Starlight Reserve is a natural space internationally recognized for its quality of the night sky and its commitment to the protection of darkness, astronomical dissemination and the experience of the firmament. It is certified by the Starlight Foundation, supported by UNESCO, the International Astronomical Union (IAU) and the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO).

To be certified, a territory must meet rigorous criteria on:

• Night sky quality: low background brightness levels, atmospheric transparency, stability of conditions.

• Lighting strategies: the management of public and private lighting, reduction of glare, use of efficient and controlled technologies.

• Infrastructures and services: have observation points, trained guides, signage, adequate equipment.

• Dissemination, education and culture: integrating astronomy into social life, in schools, in cultural activities.

• Protection of the nightscape: zoning (core, buffering, general area) to ensure an area protected from external lights.

Within a Starlight Reserve there are usually three zones:

1. Core zone: areas with optimal and intact conditions for observation.

2. Buffer zone: peripheral areas that protect the core against light impacts.

3. External or general area: where there may be human settlements and where light control measures must be taken.
   
   

The reserve recognition is not permanent: a periodic review is required, maintenance of standards or improvements must be demonstrated, and adaptation to changes in the territory and lighting planning.

In Jaén: certifications and renewals

• The Sierra Sur de Jaén was certified as a Starlight Reserve since 2014, being one of the first in Andalusia. In 2024 it successfully renewed its certification.

• In December 2024, Sierra Mágina, Sierra de Cazorla and Sierra de Segura achieved their certification. Thus, the four mountain ranges of the Corridor share this recognition.

In this way, the Astronomical Corridor of Jaén is supported by a certified fabric: each region provides dark skies under internationally recognized standards.

3. Advantages and values of the Astronomical Corridor

Why is this project relevant not only for astronomy enthusiasts, but also for the local community, tourism and the environment? Here are some of its advantages and values:

a) Quality tourism and differentiation

Astrotourism is a growing niche: people who travel motivated by contemplation of the sky, observations, popular science activities, night photography, etc. The Corridor offers an innovative and unique product that can complement nature, cultural and rural tourism.

By attracting visitors interested in quality experiences, local consumption is stimulated (rural accommodation, local guides, restaurants, artisanal products) and the tourist season is extended, since many nights of the year are suitable for observing the sky.

In addition, by integrating heritage, landscape, routes and culture by the sky, the visitor has more reasons to stay for days, explore routes during the day and close with stellar nights.

(b) Local development and employment

The training of trained local astronomical guides (a total of 25 people have completed an exclusive programme) turns the celestial heritage into a job opportunity and a professional vocation.

Tourism companies can incorporate astronomical services: guided observations, workshops, night routes, combined packages, etc. Thus, traditionally underexploited areas can gain value and visibility.

(c) Environmental protection and biodiversity

Light pollution is a real threat to natural ecosystems: it affects insects, nocturnal fauna, migrations, biological rhythms and behaviour of species. Proper lighting management and dark sky preservation help mitigate these impacts.

In addition, promoting nighttime darkness as a value reinforces the environmental sensitivity of visitors and the local population, connecting with the philosophy of sustainable tourism.

(d) Contribution to climate change

Reducing energy consumption through efficient, quality, sensorized and well-designed lighting not only improves the night sky, but also contributes to the energy mitigation strategy. The Corridor project incorporates it among its objectives.

e) Education, dissemination and citizen science

Astronomy is a gateway to arouse scientific curiosity. The activities of the Corridor include workshops, school talks, informative routes and programs that bring astronomy closer to the general public. With this, the local astronomical culture is nurtured.

4. Where to observe? Some highlights of the Astronomical Corridor

One of the attractions of the Corridor is the diversity of emblematic places for observation, many combined with heritage, routes or viewpoints. Below, I select some of the most interesting:

In Sierra Sur de Jaén

• La Pandera: former military base converted into a preferred observation point. From its summit (more than 1,800 meters) it offers clean horizons, dark skies and good “seeing” conditions.

• Barranco de Los Tejos (Valdepeñas de Jaén): at an altitude of 1,150 m, with very clear horizons in all directions, ideal for deep observations and photography.

• El Hoyoncillo / Llanos del Ángel: central position within the core area, with exceptional southern horizons, wide esplanades and a protected natural environment.

• Astronomical Viewpoint of the Casillas de Martos: accessible, with benches, interpretive panels, comfort and privileged views over dark skies.

In Sierra de Cazorla, Sierra de Segura and Sierra Mágina

Although the official website of the Corridor does not exhaustively detail each point by region, the fact that they are certified as Starlight Reserves means that in each mountain range there are quality enclaves for observation.

In the Sierra Cazorla area (which is part of the Corridor) you can complement a stellar night with daytime nature routes, visits to protected areas or local heritage, generating a richer experience.

Guided Experiences

Guided astronomical experiences are organized within the Corridor, where experts accompany the visitor, explain the sky, set up telescopes and allow you to enjoy the sky safely and knowledgeably.

These activities are ideal for amateurs, families and people who are new to observation. Places are usually limited to guarantee quality.

5. Train guides: connect with the sky with criteria

One of the cornerstones of the Corridor is the training of local astronomical guides. These people not only accompany the tourist, but also become ambassadors of the project and of the sky.

Training Program

• The training consisted of 120 hours of theory and practice, with content covering basic astronomy, celestial mechanics, light pollution, astrophotography, use of telescopes, dissemination, gender and science.

• Professionals from tourism, public management, environmental education or amateurs with a scientific vocation were selected.

• In addition to learning, the guides are committed to the values of the Corridor: protection of the sky, good lighting practices, environmental education and quality of service.

A total of 25 guides have been accredited, and it is expected that they will activate routes, observations, workshops and local services in the regions of the Corridor.

This model not only provides quality to the visitor, but also roots the project in the territory, generating jobs and social fabric linked to the sky.

6. Events, meetings and news

The Astronomical Corridor is alive: it organizes meetings, competitions, workshops, informative activities and a permanent agenda. Here are some recent milestones:

• In October 2025, the II Meeting of the Astronomical Corridor of Jaén was held in La Iruela, with institutional participation, talks, dissemination actions and the certification of municipalities.

• In 2025, it should be noted that the Astronomical Corridor was officially constituted, with the participation of representatives of the regions, organizations and scientists.

• In 2025, the first guides of the Corridor were also trained, as we mentioned before.

• Astrophotography competitions linked to the Corridor are held, with regional participation.

• There are also school workshops, science and dissemination days linked to the night sky.

These events strengthen the visibility of the project, attract the public and consolidate astronomical culture in the region.

7. How to Participate: Tips for Visitors

If you are thinking of living the experience of the Astronomical Corridor of Jaén, here are some recommendations:

1. Plan ahead. Check the Corridor’s agenda (official website) to find out when there are guided observations or workshops.

2. Check the weather conditions. Clear nights are more frequent, but it is always better to confirm.

3. See which observation points are available. Not all places are accessible at any time of the year.

4. He arrives early and in silence. To adapt to the darkness and find the best place.

5. Equip yourself properly: warm clothes, flashlights with red light (so as not to interfere with vision), recliner, camera, tripod, blanket.

6. Take advantage of guided observation: guides will facilitate the use of the telescope, point out objects, explain stellar stories.

7. It combines with day activities: hiking, cultural visits, gastronomic routes or local heritage. This way your trip will be complete.

8. Be respectful of the environment: avoid unnecessary lights, do not leave garbage, respect fauna and the environment.

9. Participate in workshops or contests: there are often activities open to the public that strengthen the experience.

8. The role of Sierra Cazorla in the Corridor

As a tourism portal for the Sierra de Cazorla, your link with the Astronomical Corridor is especially important. This mountain range is part of the corridor and can therefore be:

• Promote the starry skies as one of its differential tourism products.

• Coordinate with local companies (rural accommodation, guides, associations) to incorporate astronomical experiences.

• Design routes that combine daytime hiking (natural parks, rivers, waterfalls) with stellar nights.

• Integrate astronomy into local festivals, cultural days and tourism events.

• Collaborate with the Rural Development Groups that manage the Corridor for visibility and dissemination.

In addition, as part of the protected area of the mountains, you can actively contribute to the management of lighting in towns and roads to minimize light pollution.

9. Future challenges and challenges

Although the Astronomical Corridor of Jaén is a very promising initiative, it also faces challenges that are important to consider:

• Maintenance of the dark sky: urban growth, new lighting infrastructures, extensions of towns or roads can generate light pollution; local control, planning and commitment are necessary.

• Social awareness: getting local people to value the dark sky requires continuous education, citizen participation and awareness.

• Financial sustainability: the project will depend on the ability to generate constant tourism income, institutional support and to maintain investments for equipment and maintenance.

• Service infrastructure: ensure the good condition of access, signage, basic facilities (parking, trails) and complementary services for visitors.

• Integrated environmental management: make astronomical tourism compatible with the conservation of the biodiversity of the environment, avoiding night-time impacts on fauna or sensitive ecosystems.

• Technological updating: ensuring that instruments (telescopes, cameras, sensors) and observation techniques evolve and remain attractive to the most demanding visitors.

• Attract a diverse audience: beyond amateurs, attract families, schoolchildren, new audiences, cultural audiences, to make astronomy more accessible.

Overcoming these challenges will involve collaboration between administrations, local communities, tourism companies, educational and scientific institutions.

10. Final Thought: Looking Up to Look Inward

The Astronomical Corridor of Jaén reminds us that the sky is a shared heritage, an amazing scenery and a bridge between science, culture and nature. In a world saturated with lights, reclaiming the darkness is as valuable as reclaiming a forest, a river or a mountain.

For you, visitor or curious, this corridor offers a unique proposal: to experience the stars in an environment of wild beauty, to broaden your horizons, to feel the immensity of the cosmos while you are in an Andalusian corner. For the territories involved, it represents a strategy for the future: differentiated tourism that values the intangible, promotes development that respects the environment and strengthens an identity linked to the night sky.

I invite you: contemplate the sky from the Sierra de Cazorla, from any of the corners of the Corridor, listen to stories of stars and planets, participate in workshops, observe with a guide, feel how the sky becomes the protagonist. Because on those starry nights, we may discover not only the universe but part of ourselves.