The highlands and upper areas of Gáldar will transform into an astronomical stage with the 'Tales by Moonlight' free initiative. Scheduled for September 18th and 19th, the event will take place between 7:00 PM and 10:00 PM in a Juncalillo enclave, recognized by UNESCO.
This activity is part of the International Observe the Moon Night, a global celebration promoting knowledge of our satellite and its connection to space science, exploration, and culture. Attendees will have the opportunity to view the Moon through telescopes provided by the 'Henrietta Swan Leavitt' Astronomical and Educational Association of the Canary Islands.
The program will blend astronomy, culture, and oral storytelling. It includes the storytelling session 'Tales by Moonlight' by Poesía Viva de la Atlántida featuring Manuel Díaz García; a talk on 'The Moon in ancient indigenous societies of the Canary Islands' by Rosetta Martorell Martinón from the aforementioned astronomical association; and the lunar observation itself.
The event will be presented by Carlos Ruiz Moreno, councilor for Highlands and Heritage of the Gáldar City Council. The initiative aims to establish Juncalillo and the highlands of Gáldar as 'A Universe to Discover,' uniting residents around the sky and a common cause.
Beyond its educational and cultural value, the event carries a significant solidarity component. Voluntary contributions can be made to the campaign ‘Que el Monstruo no Apague sus Estrellas’ (May the Monster Not Turn Off Its Stars), promoted by the Federation of Astronomical Associations of Spain, CRIS against Cancer, and El Monstruo de mi Cabeza. The campaign seeks to raise awareness about DIPG (diffuse midline glioma with H3 K27M mutation), a highly lethal childhood cancer, and to support research.
Under the slogan ‘Every child has a star… some go out too soon,’ the campaign highlights the importance of research in offering hope to affected children and families. The organization encourages the public to participate in these nights of astronomy and solidarity, where each star represents a life and a reason to keep fighting.
Although the activity is free, prior registration is required by calling 646 443 959. The Gáldar City Council invites residents and visitors to join this solidarity experience by looking at the sky for children affected by childhood cancer.
