INTRODUCTION COURSE TO PRACTICAL ASTRONOMY AND ECLIPSES. 1st EDITION – 2026
Astronomical observation stands out as one of the most important activities within scientific and nature tourism, and Andalusia is a leading force in this field in Europe. This makes these topics especially attractive for the business community involved in astrotourism in its various formats. This relevance becomes even greater in light of the series of three solar eclipses occurring in 2026, 2027, and 2028.
The training provides both theoretical and practical foundations for naked-eye sky observation. It places special emphasis on solar observation and solar eclipses, with an eye on the upcoming trio of solar eclipses in 2026, 2027, and 2028, two of which will have Andalusia as a privileged observation area.
It includes a practical observation session carried out in collaboration with different astronomical associations belonging to the Red Andaluza de Astronomía (RADA).
PROGRAM
In this first edition of the introductory level, the content is divided into nine sessions:
- Basic outdoor orientation and first steps among the stars. (May 12, 2026 / 17:00–18:30)
- The Moon with the naked eye and its phases. (May 14, 2026 / 17:00–18:30)
- The starry sky with the naked eye. (May 19, 2026 / 17:00–18:30)
- Earth’s rotation and revolution: daily and annual cycles of the sky. (May 21, 2026 / 17:00–18:30)
- Light pollution. (May 26, 2026 / 17:00–18:30)
- The Solar System with the naked eye: the Sun and planets without optical aid. (May 28, 2026 / 17:00–18:30)
- Solar and lunar eclipses: how they work and how to observe them safely. (June 2, 2026 / 17:00–18:30)
- Preparation session led by David Galadí. (June 9, 2026 / 17:00–18:30)
- Practical observation session at various locations across Andalusia in collaboration with amateur astronomy associations. (Date to be determined)
The practical observation session will take place at several points across Andalusia in collaboration with astronomical associations belonging to the Red Andaluza de Astronomía (RADA). Participants will be given meeting points in different locations so they can choose the one most convenient for them.
Schedule
Online sessions will take place from 17:00 to 18:30 on the following dates: May 12, 14, 19, 21, 26, and 28; June 2 and 9.
