Stunning Starry Sky Smile Curve: Stroll Among Giant Trees at This Prime Stargazing Spot

By MOOK Scenic Spots, compiled and reported
 
The Chiayi Forest District Office of the Forestry Bureau and the Chiayi City Astronomy Association have collaborated to host a spring astronomy event in Alishan, organizing three sessions of the “Spring Starry Sky Smile Curve” astronomy and ecology camp within Alishan National Forest Recreation Area on May 4–5, May 25–26, and June 1–2.

The smile curve of the spring night sky begins with the well-known Big Dipper and extends from north to south, passing through Arcturus (the brightest star in Boötes), Spica (the brightest star in Virgo), and Corvus—the constellation associated with the crow punished by Greek sun god Apollo and nailed to the sky.

Along this smile curve, you can also identify the majestic Leo and the radiating Cancer constellations in spring. Under exceptionally clear weather conditions, you might even catch sight of the Southern Cross, exclusive to the southern hemisphere. The Southern Cross is a key navigational star in the southern skies, and Alishan is currently the northernmost location in Taiwan where you can see the entire Southern Cross.

Beyond the nightly stargazing, one hour before sunrise, you can also spot Jupiter and Saturn in the southern sky, while Venus and Mercury are visible in the east—don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.