National Geographic Traveller (UK)
STARGAZING IN THE North York Moors
Astronomer and stargazing aficionado Richard Darn on dark skies in the North York Moors and what to look out for this winter. Interview: Helen Warwick
WHAT MAKES THE NORTH YORK MOORS GREAT FOR STARGAZING?
It all comes down to light pollution. In today’s world, the view of the heavens has almost nearly gone but on the North York Moors, thick darkness reigns and you can find skies of thousands of stars, which just isn’t possible in the city. Some people visiting have never seen the Milky Way and it comes as a bit of an epiphany when they gaze at it. They stare at this river of light beaming overhead and for those who have never seen anything like it, it’s a jaw-dropping moment.
WHERE ARE THE TOP PLACES IN THE NORTH YORK MOORS FOR STARS?
Now that the North York Moors is an International Dark Sky Reserve and the subject of many surveys, we have a very good idea of the darkest areas. There’s Ravenscar on the coast where the skies are beautiful and you can stare at the heavens. Further inland, Dalby Forest is a spectacular spot with its dark sky, observatories and events. In the west, there’s a huge escarpment, Sutton Bank, hugging the ridge with fantastic views over the Dales. Stargazers can sit on reclining benches and see shooting stars at The Star Hub.
WHY DO YOU LOVE STARGAZING?
There’s something incredibly peaceful about catching Saturn on a good night. I stand there with a pair of binoculars in the forest or on the moorland, and it’s difficult to feel stressed. You don’t need to go far — spectacular night skies can be found right here in the UK.
WHAT SHOULD WE LOOK OUT FOR THIS AUTUMN/WINTER?
Saturn, Jupiter and Mars will all be putting on a good show. All you need is binoculars and a star guide. You also might see other galaxies, like the Andromeda Galaxy. There are great winter constellations around Christmas, like Orion, and on 13-14 December, the Geminid meteor show will be visible.
For more information on York and the North York Moors, head to visityork.org/ northyorkmoors