Come to a party with all the stars
Sep 28 2007 by Matthew Mckenzie, The Journal
THE sky’s the limit when it comes to attracting visitors to one of the region’s remotest spots.
The inky dark, pollution-free skies over Kielder Water and Forest in Northumberland are drawing increasing numbers of astronomers, photographers and star gazers.
The quality of the starscape is underlined by pictures by Borders astronomer Mike Dickson. The long-exposure shots show star trails over Kielder.
The fifth Kielder star camp will be held from October 10-14, with at least 150 people coming from across the UK and abroad to camp and stay in local accommodation so they can enjoy the night skies at a time of year when they can be at their most clear.
A star camp is also held during the Spring. The Forestry Commission is also holding a public star party at 18th Century Kielder Castle on Saturday October 6, offering would-be astronomers a chance to peek through powerful telescopes.
While light pollution means many people never see a truly starry sky, the heavens above the 155,000-acre Kielder Forest remain deep black. According to the Campaign for the Protection of Rural England they are among the darkest in Britain.
Ranger Malte Iden said: “Viewing the night sky from a dark place like Kielder, away from city lights, is a joy to behold. We’ll be taking people on a tour of the constellations and offering a close up view of galaxies trillions of miles away using hi-tech telescopes.”
There will also be a chance to learn how to spot the scores of manmade satellites crossing the sky and tips from members of Sunderland Astronomical Society on how to get started in the hobby.
The event starts at 7pm and costs £5 adults, £3 concessions and £12 family ticket (two adults and two children), which includes a free star map. Booking is required on (01434) 250209.
Meanwhile, work is now well under way on the Kielder Observatory on Black Fell, near the Skyspace artwork. It is hoped that the £450,000 observatory, which will house two telescopes, will be officially opened in mid-March.
The project is being funded by the Northumberland Strategic Partnership, Arts Council England and the Northern Rock Foundation, which in May gave a £70,000 grant.
