Two Thousand Isles © 2021 Design by Naj
(St)archipelago

Words by Daniel Bosley; Pictures by Aishath Naj

The stillness of a Maldivian night is perfect for reflecting on life, both on earth and further afield.

The lack of light pollution on most islands gives unique opportunities to observe the dancing skies while the atoll sleeps.

Larger islands like Seenu Hithadhoo are particularly good for this, with wide open spaces providing perfect conditions for seeing the galaxy.

Setting out into the heavy silence of night, stargazers can welcome the light of faraway stars as it arrives in Addu, weary from years of wandering the cosmos.

Without the need for telescopes to interpret, the seminar with shooting stars and supernovas is free for any who wish to attend.

Astronomy tourism is a growing market that the resort sector has begun to explore. Perhaps guest houses in islands like Addu could also begin to invest in the universe.

Recommended (re)discoveries

Kon Namah Kiyanee
Islands in the Dark

Kon Namah Kiyanee
Pride of Maldives