It’s already shaping up to be a great year for those of us interested in celestial events, with the Northern Lights already spotted in Scotland and a ‘planetary parade’ currently meaning we can see seven of our solar system’s planets lined up in the night sky.
And there’s plenty more to come for amateur astronomers - with a lunar eclipse just a couple of weeks away.
Of course, most of us live in cities, with so much in the way of manmade light that only the brightest of stars can be spotted.
But, no matter where you are in Scotland, you’re not that far away from an area of dark sky that will mean you can see tens of thousands of stars.
Even if you live in Edinburgh you’re just a walk or a short drive away from some fantastic places to look to the skies.
Here are 10 of the best - just make sure to check the weather forecast before you head out.
5. The Pentlands
A short drive from Edinburgh takes you to the wilderness of the Pentlands, which can offer great stargazing opportunities. Drive up to one of the reservoirs, such as Glencorse (pictured), to have the best view of the night sky. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
6. East Neuk of Fife
You're never too far away from darkness on the coastline of the East Neuk of Fife. Take a walk from Elie to Lady's Tower and look to the skies for a fine display of stars. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
7. Lammermuir Hills
Light pollution maps of central Scotland show that one of the darkest places is the Lammermuir Hills. Just a short drive from Edinburgh, they are in East Lothian, just to the south of Haddington. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
8. Newbattle Abbey College
Another place near the Capital designated as a Dark Sky Discovery Site is Newbattle Abbey College, just outside Dalkeith, which has very low levels of light pollution. Photo: Google Maps