6 years and over.

No specialist equipment is needed for this event, although if you have a telescope or binoculars you are welcome to bring them.

Visit Battlesteads Observatory, an official Dark Sky Discovery Site, and enjoy a beginner's guide to dark sky stargazing under the twinkling stars of Northumberland on the edge of one of the largest area of protected dark skies in Europe – the Northumberland International Dark Sky Park.

Using our 14 inch diameter large aperture telescope, we'll introduce you to dark sky objects such as nebulae, clusters, galaxies and the outer planets of our solar system as well as any comets that might be around. You will be guided around the universe and we'll talk about how to find dark skies near you, and how to plan your own evening of dark skies stargazing.  We'll also touch on some easy-to-understand phone apps, cosmology and introduce you to the science of the stars and beyond! We have a selection of telescopes for guests to use, and each guests gets their on pair of binoculars to use during the event.

During the winter months the observatory warm room is kept cosy and with free hot drinks available all year round; this simply is the best and most comfortable way to be introduced to the dark starry skies of Northumberland and the universe beyond. 

Observatory events are subject to adaptation to accommodate rare and breathtaking northern lights displays and these spectacular phenomena could unfold unexpectedly during this event.  So if the heavens come alive with the dancing Aurora Borealis, we will seamlessly weave them into our night's observing, ensuring an unforgettable experience for you.

All our events also include the chance to handle and investigate our extensive meteorite collection, which includes pieces of asteroids, the Moon and planet Mars.

Observing the skies is weather dependent, but you'll be pleased to know that all events go ahead whatever the weather and we deliver exciting and interesting events every time.