Astro-tourism is a profitable business - as designated by Euromonitor - and already generates profits of millions in countries like Australia, Chile or Hawaii. 2012 will be an excellent for star watching and astronomy enthusiasts due to the spectacular transit of Venus, an event that happens only 'twice in a lifetime', when Venus will be between Earth and Sun.

This event is even more important as the next date it can be viewed, is in 2117, which practically makes it the most important event of the year, although there are several other worthy of attention for star gazers.

Here is a list of these astro-events that will take place in 2012:

1) Transit of Venus, June

The last time this event occurred was in 2004 but if you miss it in 2012, you will have to wait until 2117.

2) Annular Sun Eclipse

Annular eclipses occur about once every two years and are manifested visually by converting sunlight into a 'crown' ring. For the North American continent in 2012 it will still be the first annular eclipse of this millennium. Places where you can watch it best: China, Japan, the U.S. west coast, Canada

3) Total eclipse of the Sun, November

Sudden darkness of a total solar eclipse is rare and difficult to miss while you're in the right place. The fact that you can see with the naked eye the blurred corona of the sun is really a rare thing. Places where you can see the best: Northern Australia.

4) Lunar Eclipse, June

The moon will turn red for some astronomers in June when Earth's shadow will cover the moon. Places where you can see the best: Australia.

5) Rain of meteors Geminids, December

Up to 60 multicolored meteors per hour will furrow dark sky during December, with a maximum intensity on 13 and 14 December. Places where you can see it the best: Northern Hemisphere