Aurorae are now very well understood by physicists worldwide, but for thousands of years they played a part in many communities’ religions, fairy tales and folklore. Join the team at the North Pennines Observatory on a journey that begins with the history of the Northern Lights and continues with our scientific understanding of the aurora today.
Expert astronomer Roy Alexander will be leading this family friendly event. He will give you the knowledge and understanding you need to hunt the Aurora Borealis for yourselves. You’ll learn the basics of the science behind how they are created, how to find them, which apps to use, and some hints and tips on how to photograph them successfully.
Advance booking is essential via https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/aurora-hunting-in-the-north-pennines-tickets-1024764757977
- £12.50 concessions (under 18)
- £19 adult (18+)
Aimed at adults and children (8 years +)
North Pennines Observatory @ ACA, Allenheads Contemporary Arts, Old School House, Allenheads, Hexham, Northumberland NE47 9HR. Visit https://www.acart.org.uk/observatory-allenheads for details.
If the sky is clear after the talk, you’ll take a tour of the night sky using the telescope in the observatory. And if you are very lucky, you might even see some aurora!
This year we have been lucky enough to witness the magical phenomena of the Aurora Borealis or Northern Lights, right here in the North Pennines.
Observing the skies is weather-dependent, but you’ll be pleased to know that events go ahead whatever the weather. The team at the observatory aim to deliver exciting and interesting events every time.
The Northern Lights are a random natural occurrence, and our aurora hunting night is about preparing for the occasions when they are visible, aurora may or may not be visible on the night.
Wrap up warm and bring a red light torch (if you have one). Access to the North Pennines Observatory is via a steep access road and has limited space for parking – please park considerately in the village and walk up or message (helenshead@acart.org.uk) to reserve a parking space. Warm drinks provided.
Doors open 6.45pm. Please arrive early for welcome hot drinks. The presentation will allow plenty of time for questions and discussion and the last half hour, depending on the weather, will be reserved for stargazing.
Ask about stargazing sleepovers at the onsite accommodation at the Observatory Cabin (up to 3 people) or the larger 4-bedroom accommodation at the Old School House. Book for this event or another private, bespoke stargazing experience. Contact helenshead@acart.org.uk for more information.
This North Pennines Observatory @ACA event is part of the North Pennines Stargazing Festival running from 25 October to 3 November 2024 – www.NorthPenninesStarFest.org #NorthPennStarFest24 #NPennDarkSkies
