Three top tips to make the most of dark skies and check out the constellations
WITH the nights drawing in, things are looking up for stargazing.
The pastime makes for a cute date or a wholesome family activity that doesn’t need a big budget.
Here’s are stellar ways to check out the constellations.
DIARY DATES: Try to time your skygazing around greater activity to spot magical shooting stars or even the Northern Lights.
This month, watch out for two meteor showers — the Draconids peaks next Tuesday and Wednesday while the Orionids will be best seen around October 21 and 22. Major showers visible from the UK are listed by the Royal Museums Greenwich at rmg.co.uk.
The Northern Lights have also been seen across the UK this year thanks to geomagnetic storms.
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Space physicists from Lancaster University issue alerts when it’s possible to see the aurora. Follow them on X @AuroraWatchUK or check out aurorawatch.lancs.ac.uk.
PICK YOUR SPOT: The best place to stargaze is away from the light pollution of towns and cities.
Some Forestry England woods have been awarded “dark sky discovery site” status for their excellent night-time views.
Find the full list at forestryengland.uk where you can also download a free guide to stargazing.
Galloway Forest, to the west of Dumfries, is a gold-tier dark sky park. On a clear night more than 7,000 stars and planets are visible from it.
BE PREPARED: Of course, you’ll need a clear night to stargaze so check the weather in advance before you head out. It can take about 30 minutes for your eyes to adapt to the dark.
A red torch will help you to see what you are doing while maintaining your night vision. You can create one by simply taping red cellophane over a normal torch.
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