Saudi Arabia is embarking on an extraordinary endeavor, set to establish the most expansive sanctuary for observing the cosmos, heralding a new era of celestial exploration.
The visionary initiative, spearheaded by Red Sea Global, seeks to metamorphose a stretch of the kingdom’s western coastline into a haven for travelers, where the intrusion of artificial light will be nearly eradicated.
Under the visionary leadership of Crown Prince Mohammad Bin Salman, Saudi Arabia is in the throes of a profound metamorphosis, as reported by The National News. From the groundbreaking Neom project to the groundbreaking debut of a swimsuit fashion gala, the nation is traversing uncharted territories of modernity.
Now, unveiling its latest masterstroke, the kingdom intends to erect the planet’s largest sanctuaries for nocturnal skies, as part of its audacious regeneration agenda known as the Red Sea Global.
Nestled along the northwestern expanse of the kingdom, the coastal sprawl spanning 28,000 square kilometers is ensconced by undulating sandscapes and crystalline waters, offering a pristine canvas for celestial observation.
It stands as one of the most unblemished pockets of darkness in the nation, untouched by the encroachment of artificial illumination.
Andres Bates, the Associate Director of Illumination at Red Sea Global, articulates, “The wealth of stars that reveal themselves in profound darkness is a revelation to many. The prospect of visitors journeying to this enclave to commune with the celestial realm is truly enchanting, affording an experience that eludes the confines of mundane existence.”
Presently, the crown jewel of nocturnal preserves is the Greater Bend in Texas, reigning as the epitome of unadulterated night skies.
Per data gleaned from the World Atlas of Artificial Night Sky Luminosity, a staggering 80% of humanity dwells in locales where the celestial panorama is obscured by the veil of light pollution.