Dark sky’s the limit

Europe’s biggest Dark Sky Park unveiled in Northumberland

Today, the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA) has granted Gold Tier Dark Sky Park status to the combined areas of Northumberland National Park and Kielder Water & Forest Park, covering nearly 1,500 square kilometres of breath-taking scenery. The new zone – which will be called the Northumberland International Dark Sky Park (NDSP) – is the first of its kind in England and one of the largest in the world. In celebration, VisitEngland pinpoints the nation’s best stargazing locations, where you can join the hunt for solar storms and catch a true glimpse of celestial glory.

Northumberland Dark Sky Park comprises the whole of Northumberland National Park and most of Kielder Water & Forest Park, totalling 572 square miles or 14,832 square kilometres. Because of the unpopulated nature of Northumberland Dark Sky Park, you will be amazed by the number of stars you will be able to see on a clear night with no street lights in sight. A major catalyst for the Northumberland Dark Sky Park initiative has been the phenomenal success of the Kielder Observatory, perched 1,200 feet above forest and moorland in Kielder Water & Forest Park. As Britain’s largest public observatory, the site has attracted more than 43,000 visitors since its opening in 2008. On average it stages 30 events a month and the observatory is one of Northumberland’s most popular visitor attractions. Their next ‘Star Camp’ runs from 25 February – 2 March 2014 and features a gathering of budding astronomers to observe, photograph and exchange ideas on the night’s sky. For more information, visit http://www.kielderobservatory.org Camping is available at the nearby Kielder Campsite http://www.kieldercampsite.co.uk/ . Pitch fees from £12 per night.

Exmoor National Park, with its dramatic countryside and rugged coastline, was named Europe’s first designated International Dark Sky Reserve in 2011. Good spots for stargazing are Holdstone Hill, County Gate, Brendon Two Gates, Webbers Post, Anstey Gate and Haddon Hill. On a clear night many astronomical sights can be seen with the naked eye and even more can be discovered through a telescope. You can even go on a ‘Dark Skies Safari’ to discover the secrets of the skies, where you’ll be provided with a star chart, compass and abundant hot drinks on the 3 hour tour (autumn – spring only). Excursion cost £40 for adults and £19.50 for children. For more information, visit http://www.exmoordarkskies.com

Explore the secret lives of stars at the Royal Observatory in Greenwich, London. Home to the UK’s largest telescope, you can explore the fascinating life history of the stars, from the smallest red dwarf to the largest blue giant. Using state-of-the art digital simulation, the lifespans of stars are charted from birth through to death and beyond. Until 23 February 2014, the Royal Observatory presents its annual display winning entries from the Astronomy Photographer of the Year competition. From all over the world entrants have captured ethereal images of the sky viewed from Earth, out to swirling nebulae in deep space. See these incredible images close-up and free, and take inspiration for your own photography and stargazing. For more information, visit http://www.rmg.co.uk/royal-observatory .

One of England’s more unique stargazing locations, Bignor car park occupies a high point on top of the South Downs. Free from light pollution, the Milky Way is clearly visible and the view is awe-inspiring during daylight too. There are also plenty of footpaths nearby and a variety of wildlife can be spotted in the area; glow worms often flit around the car park, particularly on top of the nearby burial mounds. For more information, visithttp:// www.nationaltrust.org.uk/slindon-estate

Stonehenge has long been associated with astronomy. Situated on the edge of Salisbury Plain, the prehistoric ceremonial landscape of Stonehenge occupies a large, sparsely populated area that is ideal for stargazing. At one time it was thought to be an astronomical computer, as the monuments are directly connected to the skies above, with stones aligned to moonrises and moonsets. The first part of the long-awaited environmental improvements to Stonehenge will be the unveiling of a new visitor experience later this month. Tickets cost £8 for adults and £4.80 for children. For more information, visit  http://www.english-heritage.org.uk .

Valere Tjolle

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