Sunshine Coast tour operator Mystic Mountain Tours is offering a chance to explore the heavens from a unique and very hospitable vantage point with its Night Sky Journey: Astronomy Tour on Friday 15 August.
While most astro-tourism experiences are offered in outback areas, where you need to rough it to enjoy the night sky, Mystic Mountains Tours enables stargazers to explore the wonders of the universe from a viewing platform just 30 minutes the Sunshine Coast’s legendary beaches.
The tour offers a sunset experience overlooking the stunning Glass House Mountains at King Ludwig’s Bavarian restaurant and bar on the outskirts of Maleny village.
Astral travellers can enjoy their hearty hospitality and stunning views as the sky darkens over the mountains, before being bused a short distance to meet the passionate astronomers beneath the stars for a small group guided viewing as the starry night takes control.
After an introductory presentation, guests are able explore the heavens using state-of-the-art telescopes, with the astronomers answering questions and guiding the viewing as participants traverse the cosmos. Warming hot drinks are offered throughout the evening.
The small group immersive experience is available for just $120 and includes (optional) transfers from set locations on the Sunshine Coast and Montville, guided instruction by astronomers, live viewing through state-of-the-art telescopes, digital images of the featured phenomena to take home, the sunset experience and talk overlooking the Glass House Mountains, and hot drinks throughout the viewing period.
Dinner and drinks at King Ludwig’s Bavarian restaurant are an optional extra. A special menu is offered to participants to give guests a taste of Bavaria and a warming glow for the evening’s star gazing.
Mystic Mountain Tours co-owner, Lynn Fallon, said there had been a huge increase in star gazing since it was announced that Sunshine Coast Council was seeking to establish a Dark Sky Reserve covering 900sqkm in the hinterland of the Sunshine Coast. It would be the first reserve of its type on the east coast and only the second in Australia.
“We have a massive natural advantage for presenting high-quality astral viewing because of the Sunshine Coast’s unique geography,” Fallon said. “The Blackall Ranges is built on sunken volcanoes which provides a natural barrier to light from the more populated coastal areas, and yet you are just half an hour from the coast.
“Most night sky tours in Australia are offered in the outback requiring long journeys and, at times, fairly rough conditions. On the Sunshine Coast you can be surfing the waves and an hour later surfing the night sky, riding high on the stars and planets.
“The tour is suitable for anyone who has a love and fascination for the galaxy above us. Our astronomers are passionate about the science and want to share the wonders of the cosmos with everyone interested.”
