Experience a whistle-stop tour of the Universe and beyond on 20 October 8pm to 11pm at Grassholme Observatory. The event will begin with a welcome from Gary Fildes, the lead astronomer at the observatory. 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 from Gary you will split into groups and, weather depending, start observing the sky, with telescopes and cameras. With no Moon in the sky, you will look out for the Milky Way, and many dark sky objects like galaxies, nebulae and star clusters. A robotic telescope will be in use to scour the skies for other jewels in the cosmos. Then it’s back into the classroom for a hot drink and questions. Please wear warm clothing. This is a pet free event.

Pre-booking essential via www.grassholmeobservatory.com/book  and for full terms and conditions.

Adult: £24/Family: £70/Concessions: £22 Adult: 16+/Family: Group ticket for 3-4 people, max of 4, min of 3 – at least 1 child. Concession: 65+, 1-16 years or Blue Badge holder.

Grassholme Observatory is wheelchair accessible and there are accessible toilets on site. For more information about Grassholme Waterside Park visit https://www.watersideparksuk.com/park/grassholme/

For directions www.grassholmeobservatory.com/contact/

This Grassholme Observatory event is part of the North Pennines Stargazing Festival running from 20 October to 5 November 2023 – www.NorthPenninesStarFest.org.uk #NorthPennStarFest23 #NPennDarkSkies