A NEW, Dark Sky event will be hosted at Castle Kennedy Gardens during British Science Week (11th-20th March) and is being offered free of charge to encourage local families to experience the wonders of the region’s infamous dark skies in a most atmospheric setting.
Dumfries & Galloway is renowned for its dark sky status since becoming home to the UK’s first Dark Sky Park across the Galloway Forest Park in 2009. Visitors from all over the UK and further afield have flocked to the region since then to experience the intriguing night sights they simply cannot see in many other parts of the country that suffer intrusive light pollution.
On March 19th local families have the opportunity to join Biosphere Dark Sky Ranger, Elizabeth Tindal, at one of the region’s most popular visitor attractions, Castle Kennedy Gardens, for some fun filled events that offer insights about the wonderful world above us.
From 5.30pm the Biosphere Dark Sky Ranger will demonstrate the art of Rocket Launching and discuss the perfect ‘blast-off’, providing materials for families to build their own. This will be followed by Sunset, Soup and Sandwiches at 6.30pm when families can witness the spectacle of both the sun and the moon simultaneously adapting in the sky, viewing the sun setting and the moon becoming brighter. The Gardens’ Tea Room will be open especially for the evening offering home-made soup and crusty rolls along with hot chocolate and marshmallows available to purchase. Moon Gazing will commence at 7.30pm when star gazers will be able to use professional binoculars to identify where Neil Armstrong once stepped, and learn about why the moon is so important to us all.
Booking for this event is essential as numbers are restricted and are on a first come, first served basis. Participants are requested to wear suitable clothing and to bring torches. The Dark Sky events suitable for children 5yrs upwards and are free of charge. Food and drink is available for purchase in the Gardens’ Tea Room.
To book a free ticket call 01776 702024 (option 2) or email [email protected]
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