Bringing Back the Night: How Cliff Valley Astronomy is Reconnecting New Brunswick with the Stars

In a world increasingly saturated with digital screens and urban lights, the efforts of Cliff Valley Astronomy to reconnect people with the night sky stand out as a beacon of community enrichment. Nestled in New Brunswick—one of Canada’s lesser-known but astronomically rich provinces—Cliff Valley Astronomy is harnessing the celestial wonders above to foster a deeper appreciation for both the universe and the unique geographic assets of their home region.

The genesis of Cliff Valley Astronomy is rooted in the pandemic, a time when many sought solace and inspiration in new hobbies. Stéphane Picard, one of the founders, humorously describes his leap from a casual interest in astronomy to a full-blown passion for astrophotography. “Pandemic, and I really got the bug really hard,” he recalls. This transition wasn’t just about capturing the night sky on film but about creating a sustainable model for sharing this passion with others, ensuring that cost and equipment barriers wouldn’t exclude interested participants.

From modest beginnings—hosting star parties for birthdays and family reunions—Stéphane and his team have expanded their vision into a thriving astro-tourism venture. “We started with four partners. This past year, we got it almost to 30. We’re hoping for 75 next year,” he notes, emphasizing the rapid growth and potential of their initiative. Their approach is not just about looking up but also about inviting others to join the gaze—a civic mission that underlines the importance of collective experience and science education.

New Brunswick’s dark skies, unmarred by the light pollution that plagues many urban centres, make it a prime location for stargazing. As Stéphane points out, “Even in the big city centres like Saint John, Moncton, Fredericton, you don’t need to drive more than 10, 15 minutes to access a decent sky.” This accessibility offers residents and tourists alike a rare glimpse of the Milky Way—an experience that is becoming increasingly scarce across North America.

Jordan Holmes, with his strong background in tourism, complements Stéphane’s astronomical passion with a strategic vision for attracting visitors. “We found that astro-tourism, or even just astronomy in general, has climbed to the top in terms of what’s driving travel,” Jordan explains, illustrating how celestial events can act as significant draws for global travellers. Upcoming events like the 2027 total solar eclipse in Egypt and potential tours to Iceland highlight their ambition to link local experiences with global opportunities.

As light pollution continues to encroach on night skies worldwide, Cliff Valley Astronomy’s mission also serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between technological advancement and environmental preservation. Stéphane emphasizes the importance of keeping skies dark for future generations, noting, “Eighty per cent of Americans do not see the Milky Way from where they live.” By creating experiences that are both educational and awe-inspiring, the organization is not only promoting tourism but also fostering a deeper appreciation for the natural world.

In a society that often overlooks the simple beauty of a starlit sky, Cliff Valley Astronomy provides a vital service. Their work encourages people to pause, look up, and reflect on the vastness of the universe—a shared heritage that transcends borders and generations. As Stéphane succinctly puts it, “Nobody owns the sky, right? So it’s there for people to enjoy.” Through their efforts, they are ensuring that this enjoyment remains accessible to all, turning New Brunswick into a celestial hub of education, tourism, and community spirit.