Dark Sky Scotland events
in the Western Isles

Dark Sky Scotland events in the Western Isles

Scotland, but especially the Western Isles, has some of the best areas of dark sky unaffected by light pollution in Europe.

This offers spectacular views of the stars and planets.

Recently Museum nan Eilean became a partner of Dark Sky Scotland and are hoping to be part of Dark Sky Heritage which links astronomy to local folklore and events. A number of local schools have signed up to this project and now have the opportunity to meet members of the Royal Observatory in Edinburgh as they tour the Western Isles.

If you would like to know more about the night sky come along to one of the ‘Dark Sky Scotland’ events being held this week and find out how astronomers are delving ever deeper into the wonders of the Universe. You might be able to spot – stars, planets, comets, meteors, nebulae and even other galaxies.

You won’t need a telescope to do stargazing as most of the observing session is naked-eye stargazing – there is more than enough to see through just your eyeballs! Telescopes and binoculars are great for getting a really good view of the moon, or to see the rings round the planet Saturn, but for picking out constellations – the pictures and patterns made of stars – your eyes are far better, as they can see a much larger area of sky at one time.

Even if the weather isn’t clear you can come along and see the indoor StarLab and take part in other activities. The events are open to all.

Tue 23 March, Eoligarry School, Barra, 7.30pm
Wed 24 March, Sgoil Lionacleit, Benbecula, 7.30pm
Thu 25 March, Knock School,Lewis, 7.30pm

More information available from Museum nan Eilean in Stornoway on 01851 709266 or Sgoil Lionacleit on 01870 602864.