New telescope to see further into dark skies
KIELDER OBSERVATORY APPLIES FOR RADIO FACILITY
PEOPLE could soon be able to enjoy Northumberland’s famous dark skies from afar, thanks to a planned new telescope.
Bosses at the famous Kielder Observatory, set within Northumberland’s world-class Dark Sky Park area, have applied for permission to construct a new radio astronomy facility, which could beam its findings to other locations.
Radio astronomy is a method of observing the wonders of the universe that is not reliant on clear weather, as it picks up radiowaves coming from astronomical objects.
It can deliver scientifically important observations, including some that have supported the development of the Big Bang theory and discovered new objects, such as pulsars.
Observatory representatives are now seeking planning permission from Northumberland County Council to set up a new, fivemetre-diameter, Spider 500 radio telescope.
This telescope could be used to contribute to worldwide scientific research – as well as for outreach activities to schools and community groups, allowing people remote access to what’s seen at the observatory.
Catherine Johns, CEO of Kielder Observatory, said: “This investment would make a dramatic difference to our astronomy offer, especially now when people are understandably reluctant to travel, as it would mean you can access the observatory remotely.
“A school child in Sunderland or Darlington, for example, would be able to experience Kielder without setting foot here.
“It’s an exciting time in the history of Kielder Observatory.”
The telescope would be mostly funded by the Tanlaw Foundation. Lord Tanlaw, of the foundation, said he selected Kielder Observatory because of its commitment to public outreach and its remote location.
He said: “It is hugely important that we can use this facility to reach a wider, hitherto excluded, audience to observe the universe and create distance learning in astronomy, data science and astrobiology.”
Kevin May, forest management director for North England Forest District, added: “We believe this telescope will be unique in the forests we care for, building the profile of Kielder and Northumberland, and will allow many people to experience the Kielder skies via remote access.”
The observatory, which attracts around 20,000 visitors per year, is set to reopen on August 1 as lockdown measures ease, with social distancing enforced and group sizes reduced from August to October.