The Dark Skies Campaign organises regular viewing events throughout the observing season (August to April). These are often held at our Dark Sky Discovery Centre in Thorington Street, in the various villages within the Dedham Vale National Landscape or further afield.
See below for our upcoming and past events.
*** LOCATION CHANGE ***
Due to the popularity of the comet event we have changed the location to Polstead Church. The Church has an unobstructed view to the South West and can cater for more participants. Viewing will start at 7pm with the presentation at 8pm.
7pm, 25th October 2024 @ Polstead Church, CO6 5BS
Comet Tsuchinshan in our skies tonight
The Comet named Tsuchinshan - Atlas A3 is currently in our early evening skies and will be visible for a couple of weeks more as it returns to the outer solar system. Our talk tonight will feature Tsuchinshan, the origin and life cycle of comets.
Every now and again there are spectacular comets that circumnavigate the sun and put on spectacular shows for us. Tsuchinshan was hyped by the media to be one of these. Does it live up to its promise?
Doors open at 7pm with the presentation starting at 8pm. There will be observing sessions both before and after the talk. The comet will only be visible during the early observing session.
There is no charge for this event, but will be a donations box. All proceeds will be donated to the Church fund.
To book please email [email protected] with the number of guests in your party.
8pm, 27th September 2024 @ Dark Sky Discovery Centre, Thorington Street
The King, Queen and the Elegant Swan
Discover the spectacular Autumn Constellations at our Dark Sky Discovery Centre. There will be a presentation about the constellations of Cepheus the King, Cassiopeia the Queen and Cygnus the Swan. These 3 are the prominent constellations visible during autumn.
You will discover both the visible and less prominent features ranging from the star patterns down to the incredible deep sky images of the stellar nurseries, nebula and dust clouds that are present in these areas within our home Galaxy: the Milky Way.
After the talk there will be refreshments provided which will be followed by observing through telescopes guided by our expert team of Astronomers (weather permitting)
Places are limited to 30 guests so booking is essential email [email protected] to reserve your seat.
