Fenham Farm

Dark sky at night, stargazers' delight

Sat 28th January 2012

Over 40 people attended a 3D Guided Tour of The Solar System at Fenham Farm on 21st January, one of a series of events arranged by Northumberland Astronomical Society (NASTRO) and the Northumberland Coast AONB Partnership in conjunction with Stargazing Live 2012 by the BBC.

This event was one of two in January promoting the importance of protecting dark skies by minimising human-produced light pollution. This is one aspect of conservation in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) such as the North Northumberland coast. The previous week, over 120 people met in the dramatic King's Hall at Bamburgh Castle for a talk on the search for extra-terrestrial life.

Mel Nicholls (AONB Partnership) said "These successful events were part of the Northumberland Coast AONB Partnership's Dark Skies awareness project. Increasing light pollution, even in rural Northumberland, can jeopardise this experience. The AONB Partnership is keen to raise awareness of the night sky, and the importance of reducing light pollution. It does not mean we need to grope around in the dark. It is about lighting our buildings and spaces in a way that is dark sky friendly."

The AONB Partnership will continue to work with NASTRO and other local partners to protect and promote the dark skies of North Northumberland, so look out for forthcoming opportunities to get involved.

And the next time you visit us at Fenham Farm, don't forget to look up!