Strategi Pengembangan Wisata Astronomi di Desa Warnasari Kecamatan Pangalengan, Kabupaten Bandung, Jawa Barat

Abstract

Astronomy tourism (astrotourism) is a form of sustainable tourism that utilizes the quality of the night sky as the main attraction through activities such as stargazing, night sky photography, and astronomy education. Desa Warnasari, located in Pangalengan District, Bandung Regency, has significant potential for astrotourism development due to its highland landscape, relatively low light pollution in several areas, cool climate, and tranquil rural environment. However, astrotourism has not yet been formally developed as part of the village tourism program. This study aims to analyze the potential, challenges, and development strategies of astronomy tourism in Desa Warnasari. The research employs a descriptive method with a SWOT analysis approach. Data were collected through surveys, observations, and interviews involving local communities, tourism actors, and an astronomy community (ASTRADA). The analysis focuses on identifying internal factors (strengths and weaknesses) and external factors (opportunities and threats) related to astrotourism development. The results show that Desa Warnasari has strong environmental advantages, including dark sky conditions, open landscapes, and a peaceful atmosphere that supports astronomy observation activities. Nevertheless, key challenges include limited community knowledge of astronomy, the absence of specific institutions managing astrotourism, lack of supporting facilities, and potential threats from increasing light pollution and weather uncertainty. Based on the SWOT analysis, the most relevant and sustainable strategy is the establishment of a tourism awareness group (Pokdarwis) focused on astronomy tourism, supported by collaboration with astronomy communities. This strategy is expected to enhance local capacity, strengthen environmental management, and ensure the sustainable development of astronomy tourism in Desa Warnasari.