Milky Way over Big Bend National Park, Texas, USA

© wisanuboonrawd/Adobe Stoc

A galactic gig. Big Bend National Park, Texas, USA

Ready to channel your inner nature enthusiast? Let's explore Big Bend National Park in West Texas, USA, which is celebrating its 80th birthday today. This park is the largest protected area in the Chihuahuan Desert, covering over 1,250 square miles. The Big Bend State Park was established on June 12, 1944, when the state of Texas transferred this land to the federal government.

Within the park lie not only historic landmarks like the Castolon Historic District and the Hot Springs Historic District, but also the footprints of modern pioneers, ranchers and miners. This land is also one of North America's premier destinations for stargazing. The absence of human activity in the surrounding regions results in low-level light pollution and some of the darkest night skies in the area. Bring your binoculars along and enjoy an evening full of Milky Way vistas, meteor showers, star sightings and taking pictures of the stunning night sky.