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.
9. Outer Hebrides
While the Inner Hebrides may have two officially recognised Dark Sky Places, the Outer Hebrides aren’t terribly far behind. Whether you’re on Lewis, Harris, Uist or Barra, there are plenty of locations to stargaze. | spanishjohnny72 - stock.adobe.com
10. Isle of Skye
Again, the Isle of Skye is home to a number of excellent locations for gazing into the dark, night sky. There are 9 Dark Sky Discovery Sites on the island, including Neist Point, pictured here. | shaiith - stock.adobe.com
11. Caithness
As well as the islands, Caithness and the north coast of Sutherland are both also renowned for their views of phenomena such as the Northern Lights due to low levels of light pollution, and are just as popular among enthusiasts. | Oliver Taylor - stock.adobe.com