9 Amazing Facts About Bolivia's Salar de Uyuni That Will Blow Your Mind (And #6 Even Surprises Locals!)

8. Night Sky Observatory Paradise

One of the best sites for astronomical observation worldwide is created by the unique air conditions above Salar de Uyuni. High altitude, low light pollution, and very dry air all provide ideal circumstances for cosmic investigation. Often occurring throughout the year, clear nights transform the salt flat into nature's largest reflecting telescope, producing double pictures of the stars appearing to span endlessly in all directions. Professional astronomers have set up multiple research sites around the salt flat to exploit these special circumstances.

Unprecedented view of celestial objects made possible by the clear atmosphere enables one to see events difficultly seen elsewhere on Earth. The position of the salt flat near the equator offers first-rate views of the stars in both northern and southern hemispheres. Significant astronomical discoveries resulting from advanced imaging methods designed especially for use in this environment include The dark sky reserve status of the area guarantees that light pollution stays low, therefore safeguarding these perfect viewing conditions for next generations. Local towns have created specialised nighttime tourism initiatives combining contemporary scientific knowledge with traditional astronomy knowledge.