The Night Of The Stars: A Weekend To Observe The Sky.

Every summer since 1991, the Night of the Stars allows thousands of curious people all over France to discover the secrets and wonders of the celestial vault. On this occasion, an ever-growing audience gathers to observe the sky and shooting stars.

When is the Night of Stars?

The Night of the Stars is a free astronomy event open to everyone. This public event now lasts for three nights, so it is also referred to as Nights of the Stars in plural!

This great astronomy celebration is organized every summer in August by national associations such as Planète Sciences, the French Association of Astronomy (AFA), and the Astronomical Society of France (SAF).

This highly popular event is supported on the ground by numerous amateur astronomer clubs and local associations that offer the general public between 300 and 500 animation sites.

Who created the Night of Stars?

The Night of the Stars was created in 1991 under the name "Night of Shooting Stars".

This national event was organized at the initiative of Eric Piednoël, Olivier Las Vergnas, Alain Cirou, Hubert Reeves, Daniel Kunth and Pierre-Henri Arnstam in collaboration with the television channel France 2 and astronomy clubs.

What are the activities of the Night of the Stars?

The Night of the Stars invites you to various regions of France, at observation sites led by volunteer or professional astronomers.

This event aims to introduce the general public to astronomy through various activities: sky and star observations, as well as workshops, conferences, screenings, and exhibitions.

Please note that the observation sites participating in this national event are listed on the website of the French Astronomy Association (AFA) (see link below). You can also register on this site to propose a local event.

How to participate in the Night of Stars 2023?

Every year, the date of the Night of the Stars is chosen to offer the best observation period (especially to allow the public to observe many shooting stars even with the naked eye).

The 33rd edition of the Nights of the Stars takes place from August 11th to 13th, 2023 throughout France. This year, more than 530 events are planned all over the country.

Even if you can't go to a sky observation site near you or your vacation spot, you can participate in this great astronomy celebration thanks to a special programming on Arte! On Saturday, August 12th, the channel will broadcast documentaries dedicated to stars and the cosmos throughout the day.

Furthermore, you can also take advantage of this opportunity to download an astronomy app such as:
- Sky Map
- Night Sky
- Moon Phases (Android only)
- ISS Detector or ISS Finder to see the International Space Station pass above your head!