The event on Saturday 17 October, 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 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.
With no Moon in the sky, you will look out for the Milky Way, and many deep sky objects like galaxies, nebulae and star clusters. You will then use the robotic telescope to scour the skies for other jewels in the cosmos. Then it’s back into the classroom for a hot drink and questions.
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.
Booking
- Visit https://bookwhen.com/grassholmeobservatory/e/ev-say6b-20261016200000 to book and for full terms and conditions.
- Adult: £27 (16+)
- Family: £80 (group ticket for 3-4 people, max of 4, min of 3 – at least 1 child)
- Concession: £22 (65+, 1-16 years, 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/
Image: The Milky Way above Grassholme Observatory © Grassholme Observatory.
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
For directions visit www.grassholmeobservatory.com/contact/
