It is officially International Dark Sky Week and there are plenty of places in Scotland worth visiting to mark the occasion.
Already our country is among one of the best destinations in Europe for stargazing, with Galloway Forest Park among one of the first places in the world to be designated as an International Dark Sky Park in 2009.
Awarded to places with minimal levels of light pollution, there are more than 200 certified Dark Sky Places globally - and Scotland is home to six in total.
From communities such as Moffat, to the Isle of Rum - which is among just 23 Dark Sky Sanctuaries worldwide - there are spots from the Borders to the Islands which will offer amateur astronomers an excellent chance to enjoy the best of the night skies.
So to celebrate International Dark Sky Week, here are 11 of the best dark sky destinations worth visiting in Scotland.
1. Galloway Forest Park, Dumfries and Galloway
Galloway Forest Park is the largest of its kind in the UK, and it was one of the first ever official Dark Sky Parks in the world. Around 20% of its 78,000 hectare sprawl has been set aside to preserve dark skies and wildlife, with no permanent lighting installed, and has been named as one of the best places for stargazing in the UK, not just Scotland. There are two rangers who specialise in dark skies at the park, with their favourite spots including Clatteringshaws Loch, Stroan Loch and Glentrool. | Quarterland Photos - stock.adobe.com
2. Moffat, Dumfries and Galloway
Home to around 2,500 residents, Moffat is one of Scotland’s Dark Sky communities. Once home to Robert Burns, the village successfully lobbied Dumfries and Galloway Council to change the outdoor lighting, to become the first officially recognised Dark Sky Towns in Europe. | Mihai - stock.adobe.com
3. Isle of Rum, Inner Hebrides
A more recent location recognised by DarkSky International, the Isle of Rum in the Inner Hebrides is one of only two International Dark Sky Sanctuaries — and one of just two in Europe. | SRSImages - stock.adobe.com
4. Isle of Coll, Inner Hebrides
Another Dark Sky Community, the Isle of Coll is also in the Inner Hebrides and was recognised by the organisation in 2013. Also a great location for birdwatchers, some of the best times to visit are from August to March. | Rob - stock.adobe.com