Astrotourism–Exceeding Limits of the Earth and Tourism Definitions?

Martina Pásková, Nicol Budinská and Josef Zelenka
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Martina Pásková: Faculty of Informatics and Management, University of Hradec Králové, 500 03 Hradec Králové, Czech Republic
Nicol Budinská: Faculty of Informatics and Management, University of Hradec Králové, 500 03 Hradec Králové, Czech Republic
Josef Zelenka: Faculty of Informatics and Management, University of Hradec Králové, 500 03 Hradec Králové, Czech Republic

Sustainability, 2021, vol. 13, issue 1, 1-25

Abstract: Emerging forms of alternative or even niche tourism represent a dynamic trend in tourism development. Astrotourism is completely off the beaten path. The aim of this study is to provide a deeper insight into this phenomenon. It strives to reveal motivations, experiences, and perceptions of its participants. It also aspires to propose its complex definition as an activity including both terrestrial astrotourism and space tourism. It is suggested to perceive it not only as a form of alternative and/or niche tourism, but also that of mass and professional tourism. To reach these objectives, the authors analyzed relevant published studies and astrotourism products presented on relevant websites and social media. They elaborated the collected secondary data by mental mapping and the comparative analysis of terrestrial and space tourism products. Moreover, the authors collected primary data through a survey with open-ended questions addressed to persons interested in astrotourism and through semi-structured interviews with terrestrial astrotourism participants and personalities. The results provide insight into both the specifity and variability of astrotourism and their typical products, as well as a discussion of their future trends. They also bring a motivation spectrum for the astrotourism participants and benefits perceived by them.

Keywords: astrotourism; space tourism; terrestrial astrotourism; tourism participant motivation; archaeoastronomy (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2021
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (3)

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