Mayo is now home to Ireland’s first International Dark Sky Park, showcasing some of the darkest, most pristine skies in the world.. Nestled between the remote Nephin Mountain Range and the unspoiled Atlantic coastline, the Dark Sky Park extends across an area of … Where the darkest skies reveal the brightest stars. ... Coast – The north coast is home to the Giant’s Causeway but also has the darkest night skies on the island of Ireland. More. Stargazing is best done before the moon is full, so it might be worth looking at the next new moon dates before you book your trip. The club also hosts an observing event at Athlone Castle in County Westmeath several times a year. Rosaveel, the island is almost devoid of light at night. PC:Yun Xu. Official Homepage: http://www.mayodarkskypark.ie/, Even though are supposedly settlers since 4000 BC around Lough Gur, there is literally nothing around it. Described as one of the best spots for stargazing in Europe and arguably one of the world’s best stargazing sites. The new telescope is a 16″ that has an attached 5″ refractor while the original telescope is 10″. Davagh Forest Park and Beaghmore Stone Circles – The Forest offers an observatory and visitor centre, as well as Bronze Age stone circles. Cork Astronomy Club supports nearby Blackrock Castle Observatory events and hosts monthly lectures at University College Cork. More info: www.mayodarkskypark.ie; www.wildatlanticway.com; www.greenway.ie. More info: www.irelandsancienteast.com; www.visitwicklow.ie; www.irishastrosoc.org. Located in Ireland, it won’t be wrong if you described Connemara as the most remote place to urbanization in the West. The park, one of the UK's International Dark Sky Reserves, is also hosts its own Dark Skies Festival - it's set to take place from the 16th-31st October 2020. A secluded utopia for stargazing and appreciating the natural nighttime environment, the Dark Sky Reserve is home to some 33,000 residents and is within easy access of over a million people. Discover the best places to go stargazing in Scotland, including the UK's first Dark Sky Park in Dumfries and Galloway, and some top Dark Sky Discovery Sites. Sophisticated telescopes are increasingly cheaper, … With only 131,802 yearly visitors, this park is one of the best to stargaze from without being disturbed by other visitors. One of my few naked-eye drawings of the Milky Way was done from Durrus on the Sheep’s Head Way peninsula in west Cork. Please note: Your stargazing experience will take place in a group of up to 40 participants. RAMBLINGS. For more info: www.irishastro.org.uk; www.bushmills.com/distillery; www.discovernorthernireland.com. Elan Valley International Dark Sky Park, Wales (2015) Elan Valley International Dark Sky Reserve. From the Ancient East to the Wild Atlantic Way, there is a wealth of stargazing locations with good night skies, where visiting astronomers can experience darkness of the deepest kind. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. According to IDA, the largely untouched Susquehannock State Forest offers about 60 to 85 nights of high-quality dark-sky stargazing each year. Altarichard Forest Car Park. Astronomers head to Dunluce Castle (the home, with a healthy dollop of CGI, of House Greyjoy in Game of Thrones) whenever the auroral oval touches the dark skies here. Located in a valley near the cities of Abbotsford, Chilliwack and Mission, this dark sky park is a stargazing oasis. Lassen Volcanic National Park, California Lassen Volcanic National Park is another excellent national park to visit at night. Of course, this is only a symbolic gift – but it’s a fun and loving one and you can buy & name your own star whatever you want! Cherry Springs State Park has about 85 nights a year, with perfect conditions for stargazing and astronomy. The area is also one of two regions designated as Milky Way Class by the Dark Sky Discovery Partnership, meaning our Galaxy is visible on clear nights with the naked eye. More info: www.thesheepsheadway.ie; www.corkastronomyclub.com; www.fotawildlife.ie. As a result, it is currently filing for Dark Sky Park status. One of the most magnificent sights in all of nature is the night sky peppered with stars, distant planets and streaking meteors. Great Basin National Park in Nevada hosts some of the darkest skies in the western continental U.S. Low humidity levels, dark skies, and high elevation make optimal stargazing conditions. Away from the bright lights of Dublin, Kerry Dark Sky Park is located on the far southwestern coast of Ireland. To go stargazing, all you need is to put yourself outside under a clear sky, but the experience can be made a lot more comfortable with a bit of forward planning and preparation. Approximately 3 hours More Info. HIKING, STARGAZING & CULTURAL TOURS OF IRELAND. It's a perfect outdoor activity for kids, especially from autumn when the sun begins to set earlier. Davagh Forest Park, located near the center of the country, is the first Dark Sky Park in Northern Ireland and one of only 85 worldwide. This map shows stargazing locations that are publicly accessible of a night-time. Get 2 years for the price of 1 when you subscribe to BBC Sky at Night Magazine today! It could be a coach trip, or a group of people meeting in a certain place with a tour guide? This area in the vast east of Ireland in the County Galway is one of the best spots for stargazing in Ireland. The Kerry Dark-Skye Reserve is only one of three Gold Tier Reserves on the planet, and the only one which is in the northern hemisphere. Welcome to Mayo Dark Sky Park. Kerry Dark Sky Park, Ireland. Sadly, we have to let you know that 2020 will be the last year of trading in Ireland for Park Christmas Savings. First, there’s little light polution there and you can get a good view into the night sky. By day: Visit colourful Galway with its pubs, traditional music and food markets, or for breathtaking scenery drive through the Doolough Valley to Delphi Adventure Centre. The perfect place for little light pollution and to view some stars. Members of the Irish Astronomical Society observe close to the national park and offer monthly public viewings in Dublin. The best places for stargazing will be dark sky places. More info: www.kerrydarksky.com; www.kerryastronomyclub.com; www.skelligsislands.com. Visit Ireland's only Dark Sky Park Laser pointer tour of night sky constellations Visit darkest sites Dark Sky ranger guides Starlight Express transport ake away stargazing guides Duration. Of the more than 150 dark sky discovery sites in the UK, two are in Northern Ireland. There are special nights with astronomy programs that you can check out to use the telescopes. But this area in the north of Ireland in the County Antrim is also one of the best spots for stargazing. In the year that marks the 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing, here is our guide to the celestial highlights of 2019, so that you can plan your stargazing to coincide with the most exciting events. Connemara offers the beautiful sight of a darkening sky enriching itself slowly over the expanse of the Atlantic Ocean. Contact; Dark Sky Park; Discover; Groups; Learn; Schools; Viewing Points; Visit; Visitor Centre; News; Whats On; Shuttle Bus; Festival; CONTACT INFO. 1. Described as one of the best spots for stargazing in Europe and arguably one of the world’s best stargazing sites. By day: The ancient monuments of the Hill of Tara are worth a visit, or try a spot of zip lining, archery, climbing and other outdoor activities at Loughcrew Adventure Centre. This prestigious distinction recognizes the park’s world-class stargazing opportunities as well as its commitment to preserving the darkness through educational programs and responsible outdoor lighting. Stargazing park with Northern Lights experience to open in Ireland The park is set in the foothills of Co Tyrone’s Sperrin Mountains in Davagh Forest and is one of just 78 across the world and the second on the island of Ireland. Read more about dark-sky stargazing: Best places for astronomy and stargazing in the USA; African stargazing: best places to see the stars on the continent ; Best places in Easter Europe to see the stars; Over the years the undeniably picturesque properties on the South Rim added lighting. Top dark sky places for the best stargazing in the UK: The Northumberland National Park, where you can find an array Dark Sky & Stargazing Cottages. If you are interested in attending any of these events we always recommend contacting the event organisers first as some are subject to change. Approximately 3 hours More Info. The Killarney Provincial Park Observatory has 2 different telescopes that are available for use to the public (as long as they’re visitors to the park!). Though Cherry Springs only has about 60-80 nights with ideal conditions, hit it at the right time, and it’s always worth the drive. With minimal light pollution, big open skies and dazzling starry displays the Lake District National Park enjoys some of the best stargazing opportunities in the UK. Learn more about these inspiring places working to fight light pollution and educate the public about the importance of dark skies. The best spots in the UK for stargazing have emerged with people encouraged to take a break from daily life and gaze into the cosmos - and also improve their well-being. Chile is a dream stargazing destination with places like the Equil Valley and the Atacama Desert within its borders. 6. Though only a short drive off the motorway, Rathbeggan Lakes is still remote enough to give suburban astronomers a taste of the dark side. Connemara stands out among most of the locations in Europe, described as suitable for stargazing in the West. The ranking was created using data on the number of park visitors, accessibility, and light pollution. Bresser StarTracker Astronomical Photo Mount Kit review, 12 of the best places to stargaze in the UK, The best places in eastern Europe for stargazing. This makes the park very dark and perfect for stargazing. This list will provide you with some of Britain's darkest viewpoints for the most spectacular views of our galaxy. Inside the park, you’ll find the best stargazing vantage points at the Astronomy Field, a clearing at the summit of a 2,300-foot mountain with 360-degree views of the night sky. Death Valley National Park, California. More info: www.midlandsastronomy.com; www.birrcastle.com; www.discovertullamore.com. Located in Ireland, it won’t be wrong if you described Connemara as the most remote place to urbanization in the West. The area hosts Grange Stone Circle, built in 5500 BC and aligned with the rising Sun of the summer solstice. Deirdre Kelleghan is an artist, astronomer and co-author of Sketching the Moon: An Astronomical Artist’s Guide. Mayo International Dark Sky Park This park on the brink of the Atlantic Ocean offers 110km 2 of grassland and wilderness with designated areas for astronomers to observe under pristine skies; there’s also a visitors’ centre and exhibition space. Enjoy spectacular night skies through the monument’s sandstone arches and rock formations—in some places, visitors may see up to 15,000 stars in a single night. Spanning Nevada, much of Oregon and Utah, and sections of California, Idaho, and Wyoming, the Great Basin is the largest area of contiguous endorheic watersheds in North America. You will be outside, so dress appropriately. The Exmoor Dark Sky Reserve covers over 32 square miles, including some fantastic stargazing locations, such as Holdstone Hill, County Gate, Brendon Two Gates and Haddon Hill. Great Basin National Park was deemed to be the best stargazing hot spot in the US. The Milky Way seems almost touchable in many parts of Clare. County Clare is also famous for its traditional music scene. Here is my pick of the top 10 places to stargaze in Ireland. The route spans the island and takes in eight of its major astronomical landmarks. The best places for stargazing in Ireland, Club observes under pristine dark skies close to the. Mayo is now home to Ireland’s first International Dark Sky Park, showcasing some of the darkest, most pristine skies in the world. Stargazing in Ireland. If you are visiting The Cherry Springs State Park for stargazing, you should visit in August to witness the Perseids meteor shower. On the Iveragh Peninsula in Kerry in the southwest of Ireland, archaeologists say that stone circles found there were built to help people follow the movements of the sun, moon, and stars. We've absolutely loved helping you plan for Christmas and we're really going to miss all our customers in Ireland. QUICK LINKS. it is currently filing for Dark Sky Park status. But this area in the north of Ireland in the County Antrim is also one of the best spots for stargazing. This means that light pollution is so low that you can see many stars and astronomical figures with your naked eye and that you don’t need any equipment, sounds cool, doesn’t it? The club hosts its annual Astrofest at the Westwood House Hotel in the city of Galway. Full list of the UK's 15 national parks including top things to see and do in each one whether you're after walks, family days out or stargazing By day: The Greenway off-road cycle trail is the longest in Ireland, while the scenery of the Wild Atlantic Way speaks for itself. What they might not know is that the area is one of the best places in Northern Ireland for stargazing, with Carrick-a-Rede itself having been classified as Dark Sky Discovery Site in 2014. It is, along with Kerry, one of two IDA Dark Sky Places in Ireland, and developing astro tourism is supported by the local council and National Parks and Wildlife Service. Rugged and unspoiled landscapes lead to less light pollution and you can get an exceptional view on many stars and figures. For stargazing at Mount Cook, head to Big Sky Stargazing (opens in new window) at the foot of Mount Cook or join one of Dark Sky Project (opens in new window) (formerly Earth & Sky) tours at Tekapo's Mount John Observatory. Each year the Skellig Star party takes place at Ballinskelligs, featuring quality speakers and observing sessions: it’s an astrophotographer’s paradise. Brecon Beacons National Park, an International Dark Sky Reserve, Wales (2013) Brecon Beacons International Dark Sky Reserve. In addition to these pristine conditions, the park offers a selection of free programs including ranger-led telescope viewings. The map below shows places to go stargazing in Northern Ireland including observatories, officially recognised dark sky locations and recommended sites. Share This Page on Facebook. This region is part of Ireland’s Ancient East, and within the park is the stunning and historic Glendalough monastic site with its beautiful lakes and walks. The Antrim coast road takes you along points where the aurora sometimes makes an impactful show. Gastronomy & Astronomy. Rugged and unspoiled landscapes lead to less light pollution and you can get an exceptional view on many stars and figures. The Ballycroy National Park and Wild Nephin Wilderness have been jointly awarded by the International Dark-Sky Association as the first, Gold-tier International Dark Sky Park in Ireland, known as Mayo International Dark Sky Park. The area is also a hub for sailing, kayaking and scuba diving. Travel Directions View the stars on the Wild Atlantic Way in the only Gold Tier Dark Sky Reserve in the Northern Hemisphere. Dress warmly with plenty of layers, hat, gloves & scarf. We very much welcome suggestions if you'd like to contact us. Our guide to the best places to view the night sky on the Emerald Isle. Altarichard Road, Magherahoney, County Antrim. With 4,500 sparkling attractions to see in the night sky, we pick out some of the best stargazing spots in the UK and across the world. When we look at the night sky, how far back in time can we see? You want to stargaze a little bit with your family, girlfriend, boyfriend or just simply alone but you don’t really know where to go. By day: Visit the iconic Giant’s Causeway and stop for a dram at Bushmills, Ireland’s oldest whiskey distillery, or test your nerves crossing the famous Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge. Stargazing is something for the bucket list and, if you have never done it before, you will be amazed by the sheer beauty of the night sky. Many of these places host stargazing events. And then more lighting. Click on to find out where the best stargazing spots are. Despite its proximity to the city of Limerick, Lough Gur is dark because it is nestled amongst the hills of Knockfennel and Knockadoon, shielding it from light pollution. Davagh Forest Park Becomes First International Dark Sky Place in Northern Ireland; Comet Neowise; Trinity Talks Science Light pollution podcast; About Dark Skies in Ireland . List of stargazing locations in Northern Ireland. Dark Sky Telescope Hire are proud to offer 1-hour and 2-hour private stargazing experience nights for individuals, couples, families and small groups at some of the best stargazing locations across the UK. Kerry Dark Sky Park, Ireland. Read this guide and get to know the best places in Ireland for stargazing – You won’t regret, pinky promise! Even the pathways along the rim were floodlit. Official Homepage: https://loughgur.com/. By day: Take a trip to nearby Doolin Cave, featuring Europe’s largest stalactite, or Aillwee Cave for its birds of prey displays to educate and excite visiting families. Excluded dates may apply. With minimal light pollution, big open skies and dazzling starry displays the Lake District National Park enjoys some of the best stargazing opportunities in the UK. More info: www.galwaycity.ie; www.galwayastronomyclub.ie; www.delphiadventureresort.com. A Solstice Festival runs every summer, with people gathering to watch the Sun rise through the entrance of the circle. Stars, dark skies, and the moon have been drawing imaginations of people in Ireland since ancient times,. Mayo Dark Sky Festival takes place every year. Galloway Forest Park, Scotland. Answer 1 of 5: I was wondering if anyone is aware of any tour groups or anything similar which include a visit to the dark sky area of Kerry? Stargazing is on the up – and it's not all down to Professor Brian Cox and BBC2's Stargazing LIVE. With only 131,802 yearly visitors, this park is one of the best to stargaze from without being disturbed by other visitors. Brecon Beacons is situated in a part of south Wales where sheep outnumber people 30 to 1. Carrick-a-Rede Island near Ballintoy in Co Antrim is reached by a rope bridge that dates back to 1755. Our dark sky calendar helps you identify the best nights to go stargazing, this when there is no bright Moon at night and when the Sun has set enough so that twilight does not affect observations. And if you are already there, you can try feeding some Connemara-Ponies or drink some Connemara-Whiskey, for which this region is famous for. More info: www.loughgur.com; www.shannonsideastronomyclub.com; www.visitballyhoura.com. After dinner, we will whisk you and your friends away … Plan your visit to Ireland via the Irish Astronomy Trail and learn more about our heritage of observing the stars. Since 1988, known as an “Area of Oustanding Natural Beauty”, the Antrim Coast is a popular spot for tourists. Photo: Dixon Pictures/Shutterstock. By day: Fota Wildlife Park is just 25 minutes’ drive from Cork, while the nearby Lighthouse Loop Walk is exhilarating. Clothing. Good footwear recommended. Cools, Ballinskelligs, Co Kerry, Ireland . By day: Nearby Ballyhoura and Liscarroll offer beautiful natural trails and walks, while Limerick itself – capital of the mid-west – is half an hour’s drive. Stargazing locations in Northern Ireland. Good footwear recommended. All of these events are accessible to the public and involve some element of observing and stargazing should weather permit. Where the darkest skies reveal the brightest stars. So why is this one so special? The site is … The start time will vary according to the season but will be between 19.00 and 23.00. More info: www.meathastronomy.weebly.com; www.loughcrew.com; www.hilloftara.org. A certified International Dark Sky Park, its stargazing web page recommends visiting Mather Overlook on the scenic drive and the Baker Archaeological Site near the … By day: Birr Castle is home to the famous 19th-century Great Leviathan telescope, as well as beautiful gardens and nature walks, or wet your whistle at the Tullamore Dew whiskey distillery and visitor centre. Number one on this list is the famous Kerry Dark-Sky Reserve. Email: Kerrydarkskytourism@yahoo.ie Phone +353 0872582835. Meath Astronomy Group often meets at the lakeside to observe the night sky. Midlands Astronomy Club observe at Clonminch near Tullamore in County Offaly. We very much welcome suggestions if you'd like to contact us. It's also one of our '50 things to do before you’re 11¾' activities. Great Basin National Park, Nevada. Stargazing to the sound of the ocean in pristine dark skies is as good as it gets!! Your email address will not be published. One of the darkest places I have travelled with my telescope has to be Inis Mór, the largest of the Aran Islands off the west coast. They have their own observatory and car park, and host bi-monthly observing sessions. Stargazing Forest Dome, Finn Lough Resort, Northern Ireland By day: Visit nearby Dublin or explore Ireland’s Ancient East via the walking trails through the beautiful Wicklow Mountains. Photo … The logic is simple enough, the clearer and darker the night sky the better the opportunity for stargazing. Sahara Desert. While many areas are forested, opt for a lakeshore, parking lot, or meadow for a more expansive view. 2. This map shows the locations of stargazing events taking place in the next 30 days. These are areas/sites, which have been publically recognised for having low levels of light pollution and good public access. 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