In just a few weeks, I’ll be making my way to a mesmerizing island off the coast of northwestern Africa, renowned for its stunning volcanic landscapes and lush forests. While tourists flock to its beautiful beaches and dramatic waterfalls, I'm on a quest for something truly extraordinary—an experience that’s truly "out of this world."

This April, La Palma, fondly dubbed "Isla Bonita" (the Beautiful Island), will become the epicenter for star enthusiasts, scientists, and explorers as it hosts STARMUS La Palma 2025—a remarkable four-day festival that celebrates science, the cosmos, and the art of discovery under one of the darkest skies on Earth.

From April 25 to 28, the festival’s theme "The Island of Stars" speaks to La Palma’s remarkable celestial ambience. Known as the most northwesterly of the Canary Islands, La Palma boasts some of the clearest, darkest skies in the Northern Hemisphere and is home to the Gran Telescopio Canarias—the world’s largest single-aperture optical and infrared telescope.

What sets STARMUS apart is its unique mission to blend space exploration, music, and public engagement into a vibrant spectacle beneath the stars. I was lucky enough to experience this at last year’s STARMUS 2024 in Bratislava, and I can't contain my excitement for this year’s cosmic celebration.

The 2025 lineup features over 45 notable speakers, including Nobel Laureate Kip Thorne, renowned astronauts like Chris Hadfield, Kathryn Thornton, and Terry Virts, along with the legendary zoologist Dame Jane Goodall. This fantastic roster is just the beginning!

But for those who love gazing at the stars, STARMUS offers so much more than lectures—it’s an immersive festival of science and astronomy. Various exciting events will take place across the island, including STARMUS Camps in Santa Cruz de La Palma and Los Llanos de Aridane, where visitors can enjoy hands-on exhibits, engaging talks, and unparalleled stargazing opportunities.

This year's festival is not just a celebration; it carries a profound mission. La Palma experienced a devastating volcanic eruption in 2021, displacing many and reshaping the landscape. STARMUS La Palma 2025 is dedicated to aiding the island’s recovery, helping restore it as a prime destination for night sky lovers, while revitalizing local economies and fostering community connections.

As the sun sets each evening, STARMUS will resonate with music under the stars, featuring the Sonic Universe concert on April 26 in Puerto de Tazacorte and classical concerts in Santa Cruz de La Palma on April 25 and 27.

Founded by astrophysicist Garik Israelian and Sir Brian May, Queen's guitarist and fellow astrophysicist, STARMUS is a vibrant fusion of art, science, and the cosmos. This special edition not only promises an adventure through the stars but also serves as a touching tribute to the resilience and spirit of La Palma.