Why Uluru is one of the best places in the world for stargazing
“Look, a shooting star!” says one of my dining companions. I’m hunkered over dessert in the desert, eyes down and spoon halfway through a pretty pink globe that tastes of rosella and lychee, but swivel quick-fast hoping to see the astral firework that I always seem to miss. Damn, bad timing once again.
Luckily, there are less elusive objects to admire in the night sky after this haute four-course meal atop a remote dune near the Resort. After finishing our dinner featuring native ingredients that is a highlight of the Tali Wiru experience, we file back to the fire pit and take a seat around the crackling flames to listen to a star talk from Tyler Baira, whose Torres Strait mob might be far away but share a similar view of these constellations and stars scattered like diamonds above our heads.
Baira, who welcomed us to this spot at sunset with an age-old symphony coaxed from a didgeridoo, now points out a formation that Westerners know as Orion’s belt. He tells us an alternate version – a Yolgnu story about three brothers who went fishing. They could only manage to hook kingfish, part of their totem and something they weren’t allowed to eat, but one brother was hungry and ate a fish. As punishment, a waterspout picked up their canoe, spinning them into the night sky. For the Yolgnu those three bright stars up there are the unfortunate brothers sitting in their canoe.
“Every Aboriginal story has a lesson,” says Baira. “And the lesson of that story is don’t do wrong by your people, don’t do wrong by your tribe. If you do wrong by them, bad things will happen. Now I’m going to tell you a Creation story. I’ve saved the best for last …” And as we sip our nightcap (tawny port or a hot beverage), we follow his instructions to imagine the earth with no land, only ocean, allowing his poetic words to transport us to another universe. Stargazing talks like this are also incorporated into the Sounds of Silence dinner that this year celebrates its 25-year anniversary.
Visiting Uluru might be all about the sunset and sunrise for some but many people come away entranced by what unfolds between those two daily events. They’ve forgotten the brilliance of the night sky when it’s not obscured by pollution and artificial light, and rediscover a delight in the stars.
At Ayers Rock Resort, mini-astronomers can get an up-close peek at the planets via a telescope at the Outback Sky Journeys experience. This family-friendly tour takes place half an hour after sunset; a later (and slightly longer) tour unfolds two hours after sunset.
Amateur astronomers can also indulge in their favourite hobby at a weekend devoted to stargazing. The Uluru Astronomy Weekend (14-16 September, 2018) includes talks on the structure of the universe, dark matter, activities, demonstrations and a Stellar Starlit dinner. No doubt there will be buzz at this year’s event over news that the International Astronomical Union now recognises indigenous names for four stars, including the smallest one in the Southern Cross.
About Katrina Lobley
Katrina Lobley is a Sydney-based travel writer who has visited Uluru on many occasions, you can read her work in The Sydney Morning Herald and The Australian.
The Ultimate Outback Road Trip: From Adelaide to Darwin via Uluru
Are you ready to embark on an epic Australian adventure? Buckle up and get ready to hit the open road as we guide you through an unforgettable journey from Adelaide to Darwin.
Decoding the Red Centre Seasons
When planning your Uluṟu holiday, one of the initial decisions you'll face is: 'When should I go?' Understanding the Outback weather is key to planning the perfect trip. That’s why we're here to guide you through it with our comprehensive Red Centre travel guide.
Celebrating 40 Years Of Connecting to Country
To celebrate our 40th anniversary, let’s take a look back at the Resort’s history, our ongoing commitments, and the vision that will guide us into the future of providing countless more “Just WOW” experiences and meaningful moments.
10 Best Places & Activities in the Northern Territory
Hungry for an unforgettable meal at Ayers Rock Resort? We have options for the entire family! No matter what has your stomach rumbling, you’ll find a meal that hits the spot when you stay with us.
Under the Outback Stars: Camping Guide for Uluru
Few things are more quintessentially Australian than an Outback camping or caravanning trip.
Discover Local Outdoor Pursuits and Adventures at Uluru: Embrace Local Exploration
When you venture into the Spiritual Heart of Australia, you’re also heading to the heart of the Australian Outback.
The Importance of Uluru to Australian Indigenous Culture
One of Australia’s most widely recognised and revered landmarks, Uluru has a special significance among Indigenous Australians, in particular Anangu (pronounced arn-ung-oo), the Traditional Owners of the area.
Gallery of Central Australia (GoCA): Supporting Local Indigenous Artists
During your stay at Ayers Rock Resort, make time to visit the Gallery of Central Australia (GoCA). This bright, modern space is home to more than 350 works on display by Indigenous artists of the Central and Western Desert region and features paintings, sculptures, crafts, jewellery and more.
Making the Red Centre Greener
Responsible tourism is at the heart of all we do at Ayers Rock Resort. As an organisation, we work hard to care for Country and community, which means treading lightly wherever possible.
A Taste of Uluru at Home: Recipes from the Red Centre
Prepare a delicious, Red Centre-inspired feast right at home with this curated recipe collection from our Executive Chefs and mixologists around Ayers Rock Resort.
International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples
International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples is a day to reflect on the challenges Indigenous peoples face all over the world and to take steps toward promoting and protecting their rights.
Most Asked Questions about Uluru
We've got all the whats, whens, hows and whys of a visit to Uluru covered.
A Runner’s Guide to the Outback Marathon
For the marathoners, fun runners, and supportive spectators, a world of off-the-beaten-path adventure and relaxation awaits at Ayers Rock Resort. Here's your guide to the Outback Marathon.
NAIDOC Week 2021: Heal Country!
Each year, NAIDOC Week celebrates the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in Australia. Learn more about this year's NAIDOC Week theme and how you can connect with Indigenous communities through Ayers Rock Resort.
The Anangu Communities Foundation: Giving Back, Getting Much In Return
Voyages is committed to supporting local Indigenous communities through the Anangu Communities Foundation (ACF). The Foundation funds initiatives such as cultural and community projects, education programs for youth and health care initiatives.
Winter Roundup: Four Activities To Try This Winter (And One Bonus!)
If you’re planning a winter getaway to visit us and you’re looking for things to do, you’ve come to the right place! Here are five activities to try this winter during your stay at Ayers Rock Resort.
Complete Guide to Hiking at Uluru and Kata Tjuta
Hiking around Uluru and Kata Tjuta is one of the most awe-inspiring ways to admire these stunning Australian landmarks. Here are some tips for making the most of your hike in the Red Centre.
What to Pack on your Outback Adventure
With Crocodile Dundee and Steve Irwin as fashion icons for dressing for the Australian outback, you’d be forgiven for thinking it necessary to dress head to toe in khaki and wear a cork hat in order to survive in the sometimes extreme climate.