Hami turns its starry skies into spectacle

The annual Sweet Whispers to the Galaxy Festival was held from Aug 10 to 15 in Hami, Northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region, bringing together professional and amateur astrophotographers and drone aerial photographers from across the country.

As the Perseid meteor shower peaked on Aug 12-13, photographers ventured deep into Hami’s Dahaidao Scenic Area to capture spectacular views of the Milky Way and meteors streaking across the night sky.

With its vast expanse of wind-eroded Yardang formations and minimal light pollution, Dahaidao offers ideal conditions for stargazing and astrophotography.

The festival blended intangible cultural heritage, folk performances and astronomy, highlighting Hami's unique geological landscapes and pristine night skies while reinforcing its growing reputation as a premier destination for astro-tourism.