#Darkskies

As urban living and digital distractions draw Thais ever deeper indoors, new research highlights a compelling case for stepping outside after dark and looking up: stargazing and mindful time in nature at night may offer remarkable benefits for our mental wellbeing. This emerging perspective, advocated by astronomers and supported by recent scientific studies, suggests that time spent outside under the stars can do much more than simply foster curiosity—it can help ease stress, boost mood, and cultivate a deeper sense of connection that modern life often erodes.

A growing body of research points to a simple, accessible practice for mental well-being: stepping outdoors after dark and gazing at the stars. For increasingly screen-dominated lives in Thai cities, night-time stargazing offers a potential route to reduced stress, improved mood, and a stronger sense of connection with the world beyond urban boundaries.

Historically, most studies on nature’s health benefits focused on daytime green spaces. Recently, researchers from international institutions have linked outdoor time to better mental health. For instance, a Glasgow-led study highlighted improvements in children’s well-being from outdoor activities, while data from established universities in the United States show adults who regularly spend time in nature have lower risks of psychiatric disorders. More recently, scientists are exploring “black spaces”—the night sky—as a source of restoration and balance.