Stargazing is a fun and rewarding activity that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. It is also a great way to learn about astronomy and the natural world.
However, stargazing requires dark skies, which are becoming increasingly rare due to light pollution. Light pollution is the excessive brightness of the night sky caused by artificial light sources, such as street lights and buildings. It can make it difficult to see stars and other celestial objects.
Here are a few things you can do to reduce light pollution and improve your stargazing experience:-
- Choose a dark sky site. There are many websites that can help you find dark sky sites near you.
- Go stargazing during the new moon. The new moon is when the moon is not visible in the sky, which allows you to see fainter objects. Check a paper diary or the internet for dates.
- Check the weather. You won;t be able to see much through clouds.
- Use a red torch. Red light does not interfere with night vision as much as white light.
- Learn how to set up the equipment in the daylight. Read any instructions.
- Check the weather and wrap up in layers of warm clothes. It’s not much fun when you are freezing.
- Be patient. It takes time for your eyes to adjust to the darkness.
Stargazing can be a great way to relax and de-stress. It can also help you to appreciate the beauty of the natural world. So the next time you have a clear night sky, take some time to look up and enjoy the stars.
You should see some of the following:
- constellations such as Orion
- galaxies such as the Andromeda galaxy
- meteor showers (shooting stars)
- the Milky Way
- the Moon
- nebulae (clouds of gas and dust)
- planets such as Jupiter, Mars and Saturn, and
- stars.
Here are some of the benefits of stargazing:-
- Reduction in levels of stress. Spending time in nature can be a great help.
- Improves the quality of sleep. Dark skies are quiet and this can help you to relax.
- Increases creativity. The night sky can inspire you to come up with new ideas.
- Strengthens relationships. Spending time with other people can help you to connect on a deeper level.
- Increases knowledge of astronomy. Learning about the stars and planets, you can help you understand the universe better.
Observatories are great places to visit and learn about what is in the skies above us. Please check their websites for visiting times and dates, etc.
The Lincoln Astronomical Society has an observatory in Lincoln:-
The Lincoln Astronomical Society (may open in new tab or window)
and the Institute of Astronomy in Cambridge also has an observatory:-
The Institute of Astronomy in Cambridge (may open in new tab or window)
The Fens App 