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 and enjoy an introduction to our closest companion in space - the Moon. The Moon has been the subject of study by astronomers, artists and poets since humans first gazed up into the sky thousands of years ago.

Moonwatch evenings are specifically aimed at showcasing the moon using our powerful telescopes, and weather permitting, we also do some stargazing. Our expert team will explain some of the key features of the moon to look for and give you pointers on how to use binoculars to discover hidden lunar gems.  You'll learn how to spot:

• The highlands and seas,
• Wrinkle ridges and lunar Rilles,
• Craters and volcanoes
• Apollo lunar landing sites.
• if observing conditions allow, you'll be able to take pictures of the moon through our telescopes with your smartphone - to share on social media with friends and family!

We'll also try to stargaze as much as possible using our 14 inch diameter large aperture telescope, dobsonians and binoculars, seeking out double stars, clusters, planets, galaxies and nebulae   During the winter months the observatory warm room is kept cosy and with hot drinks available; this simply is the best and most comfortable way to be introduced to the dark starry skies of Northumberland.

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.

SUPERMOON ECLIPSE occurs today 

At about 2am until about 7am (Sunday night/Monday Morning), there will be a full lunar eclipse. Whilst this doesn't coincide with the timing of this event, you can enjoy the eclipse by booking into the hotel, or just watching it from your own back yard.

The Moon will be located on the opposite side of the Earth as the Sun and its face will be will be fully illuminated. This phase occurs at 05:16 UTC. This full moon was known by early Native American tribes as the Full Wolf Moon because this was the time of year when hungry wolf packs howled outside their camps. This moon has also been know as the Old Moon and the Moon After Yule. This is also the first of three supermoons for 2019. The Moon will be at its closest approach to the Earth and may look slightly larger and brighter than usual.