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Dark skies at Kielder

Image Credit: Kielder Observatory

Ten years after it opened, Kielder Observatory has taken a big step forward with a new observatory building, the Gillian Dickinson Astroimaging Academy, and an enhanced range of events and courses.

Since 2008, Kielder Observatory has become a focus for astronomy within Northumberland International Dark Sky Park; more than 80,000 people have visited for observing sessions and astronomy events. Now the scope of the Observatory has increased with the new building, supported by the Gillian Dickinson Trust, the National Lottery, Northumbrian Water and Northumberland County Council. Materials for the striking new building were donated by EGGER (UK) Ltd,  the largest local manufacturing employer. 

“As well as being one of best places in the world to view the night sky, Kielder Observatory is also a fantastic place to learn,” said Observatory Founder and CEO Gary Fildes. “Our focus on education and outreach has seen us work with schools across the North East and we hope to expand our work even further later this year.” Read an interview with Gary in A&G

            As well as continuing successful events such as Aurora Night, Family Astronomy and  Night Sky Safari, the observatory team are setting up early evening sessions to allow younger children to join in, and adding more in-depth events under the banner Physics in the Forest. Led by a team of academic astronomers, the events include a combination of sky observing, talks and tours of the high-tech instruments and instrumentation at the new Gillian Dickinson Astroimaging Academy.

            Find out more at the Kielder Observatory website.