The event on Sunday 18 October 2026, 8pm to 11pm, will begin with a welcome from the lead astronomer at Grassholme Observatory, Gary Fildes. Gary is a very experienced science communicator and astronomer, and founder of the Kielder Observatory, where he was Director and CEO for over 11 years.

After the welcome Gary, and the team, will take you on a whistle-stop tour of the Universe. Following this, you will be split into groups and, weather depending, start observing the sky, with telescopes and cameras.

You can expect a fun-filled night, with stunning graphics handouts, experiments, and stargazing, with an advanced array of instruments. Expert tuition from Gary and his team of astronomers, as they take you on a journey of the heart and soul.

On certain nights throughout the year, it is possible to see the Aurora Borealis from Grassholme. It is visible in these skies, but the conditions have to be right to see them and those conditions can be very rare indeed. Obviously the team cannot guarantee you will see them, and to be honest, you probably won’t, they can guarantee that you will leave well equipped on how you can spot them in future, and what exactly they are.

Bring warm clothes – it can get chilly when you are outside. The observatory, classroom and toilets are accessible. This is a pet free event.

Your booking is non-refundable. Should Grassholme Observatory cancel the event for any reason they will, however, make a full refund or give the option of a transfer to another date. If you are unable to undertake dark sky observing because of cloud cover then they will offer you a 20% discount on a future booking made and taken within eight weeks of the event.

• Adult: £28
• Concession: £22
  Adult: 16+/Concession: 65+, under 16 years, Blue Badge holder

Visit https://www.grassholmeobservatory.com/whats-on/aurora-night-33/ to book and for full terms and conditions.

This Grassholme Observatory (www.grassholmeobservatory.com) event is part of the North Pennines Stargazing Festival running from 16 October to 1 November 2026 – www.NorthPenninesStarFest.org
#NorthPennStarFest26 #NPennDarkSkies

Image: Aurora above Grassholme Observatory © Grassholme Observatory