About Australian Sky
Our Story
Australian Sky was born from a chance meeting under the stars in 2010. Founders James Mitchell and Dr. Emma Harris—an astrophysicist and a tourism expert—found themselves camping in the remote Western Australian outback when a spectacular meteor shower illuminated the night. As international visitors around them gasped in wonder, James and Emma realized that Australia's pristine dark skies were an underappreciated natural treasure.
Starting with a single telescope and a four-wheel drive, they began offering informal night sky tours to small groups. Word quickly spread about their unique combination of scientific expertise and storytelling ability. By 2015, Australian Sky had expanded to three locations across the country, adding specialized astrophotography workshops and Aboriginal astronomy experiences to their offerings.
Today, as we approach 2025, Australian Sky has grown into the country's premier astronomy tourism company, with a fleet of custom vehicles, research-grade telescopes, and a team of passionate experts. We've shared the wonders of the southern celestial hemisphere with over 25,000 visitors from 78 countries, while maintaining our commitment to sustainable tourism and dark sky preservation.
Our Mission & Values
Our Mission
At Australian Sky, our mission is to connect people with the wonders of the universe through unforgettable astronomical experiences. We believe that gazing at the stars ignites curiosity, fosters environmental awareness, and provides perspective that stays with visitors long after they return home.
Our Core Values
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Scientific Integrity
We combine breathtaking experiences with accurate, up-to-date astronomical knowledge, making complex concepts accessible without oversimplification.
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Cultural Respect
We honor and amplify Indigenous astronomical traditions that have interpreted the southern skies for tens of thousands of years, ensuring these perspectives are shared authentically.
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Environmental Stewardship
We advocate for dark sky preservation, practice low-impact tourism, and educate visitors about light pollution and its effects on both astronomy and ecosystems.
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Inclusive Wonder
We design experiences that welcome visitors of all ages, backgrounds, and knowledge levels, believing that the night sky belongs to everyone.
Meet Our Leadership Team
The passionate experts behind Australian Sky's stellar experiences
James Mitchell
Founder & CEO
With a background in sustainable tourism and a lifelong passion for astronomy, James oversees Australian Sky's strategic direction and expansion. Before founding the company, he managed eco-tourism initiatives across Australia and New Zealand. James holds a Master's in Sustainable Tourism from the University of Queensland and serves on the board of the International Dark-Sky Association's Australasian chapter.
Dr. Emma Harris
Co-Founder & Scientific Director
Emma brings academic rigor to our astronomical experiences. With a PhD in Astrophysics from the Australian National University and five years at the European Southern Observatory, she ensures all our tours combine scientific accuracy with accessible explanation. Emma has published over 20 research papers on southern hemisphere celestial objects and developed our proprietary stargazing methodology.
Lachlan Cooper
Operations Director
Lachlan oversees the logistics that make our remote stargazing experiences both safe and comfortable. With 15 years of experience in outback expedition leadership and a background as a former Australian Defense Force logistics officer, he ensures our tours run flawlessly even in the most remote locations. Lachlan holds certifications in wilderness first response, desert navigation, and is a qualified dark sky site assessor.
Kirra Wilkinson
Cultural Programs Director
A Wiradjuri woman with deep connections to Aboriginal astronomical traditions, Kirra develops and oversees our cultural sky knowledge programs. With a background in cultural heritage management and Indigenous education, she ensures our tours respectfully incorporate the world's oldest continuous astronomical traditions. Kirra holds a degree in Indigenous Studies from the University of Melbourne and has co-authored a book on Aboriginal star stories.
Our Achievements
Milestones that highlight our commitment to excellence in astronomy tourism
Excellence in Tourism
Three-time winner of Australia's Specialized Tourism Experience Award (2019, 2021, 2023)
Named in Lonely Planet's "Top 10 Astronomical Tourism Experiences Worldwide" (2022)
Environmental Leadership
Successfully advocated for the creation of three Dark Sky Preserves in Australia
Developed industry-leading protocols for low-impact night tourism now adopted by operators across five countries
Community Impact
Our educational outreach program has introduced astronomy to over 15,000 schoolchildren in rural and remote communities
Created 35 full-time jobs in remote areas, with 40% of positions filled by Indigenous Australians
Media Recognition
Featured in National Geographic, BBC Sky at Night, Australian Geographic, and CNN Travel
Our night sky photography has won multiple international awards and been exhibited at the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum
What Our Clients Say
Hear from those who've experienced the wonders of the southern night sky with us
"As someone who has visited observatories around the world, I can confidently say that Australian Sky offers something truly special. The combination of world-class equipment, knowledgeable guides, and the indescribable beauty of the southern night sky made this the highlight of our three-week Australian adventure. Dr. Harris's explanation of southern hemisphere constellations was fascinating, and the astrophotography workshop transformed how I capture the night sky."
"The Dreamtime Sky Stories tour was the most meaningful experience of our time in Australia. Learning about how the world's oldest culture interpreted the night sky added layers of meaning I never would have discovered on my own. Kirra's knowledge of both western astronomy and Aboriginal sky traditions created bridges between cultures that left our family deeply moved. My teenagers, usually glued to their phones, were completely captivated for the entire evening."
"Australian Sky's five-day astrophotography masterclass exceeded all expectations. The remote locations they took us to had the darkest skies I've ever photographed under, and Michael's technical expertise transformed my skills. I came home with images of the Milky Way and Magellanic Clouds that I never thought possible with my equipment. The comfortable eco-accommodations and delicious meals made the entire experience perfect. Worth every penny for serious night sky photographers."
Our Gallery
Capturing the beauty of Australia's night skies and our unforgettable experiences
Ready to Explore the Universe with Us?
Join us for an unforgettable journey through Australia's spectacular night skies. Whether you're a seasoned astronomer or a curious beginner, we have the perfect celestial experience waiting for you in 2025.