Spring is galaxy season for astronomers, and on this night the new moon offers us the opportunity to enjoy a beautiful dark sky and observe some of the fainter objects that the Moon eclipses.
And we can also enjoy all the spring constellations.
To really get the most out of the skies and see galaxies, we'll need to observe in astronomical twilight so it will be dark when the event begins.
(Peak viewing is after midnight so you are welcome to stay longer but will be responsible for making your own way back and for your own safety.)
Come with friends and family and join Dartmoor's Daughter and Dartmoor Skies for a gentle guided walk into the moor; expert talks about the Dartmoor landscape (history and geology) . There will also be telescopes set up to view the night skies via the laptop screen.
Tickets
FEE: £15 per adult. £5 under 18. Family discount 10% for 2 adults with 2 children. Group size is limited so pre-booking is essential.
We need to retain contact details for 21 days post-walk so please include your contact details (email and mobile/telephone when booking/paying.)
Dartmoor Skies is a charity that aims to inspire people about astronomy and science. 50% of the event profits go towards their funding and equipment
Location
Please arrive at 8.45pm ready for 9.00pm walking start at Swallerton Gate car park (near Hound Tor). Grid Ref SX739792. The car park is approximately 2 1/2 miles west of Haytor Vale on the B3387 - from this direction, turn right to Hound Tor & Manaton. Continue for 1 1/2 mile (approx.) to Swallerton Gate car park to the right.
Nearest postcode for SatNav is TQ13 9XG (approx location only) .Car Sharing - Please car share in your ‘bubbles’ where possible. Parking is limited on Dartmoor. And sharing lessens our impact on the environment. Thank you. There are no public toilets here.
We will finish approximately 11.30pm
Further Information
WHAT TO WEAR/BRING: Dartmoor is always a degree or more colder than the lowlands, so please wear/bring LOTS of warm layers including hat, gloves, blanket and/or sleeping bag, and bring waterproofs (whatever the forecast); sturdy walking boots; hot drink and snacks; and head/torch with red filter (or a rear bicycle lamp works well). And please bring something waterproof to sit on as the ground at night is damp and cold.
Dogs - Sorry no dogs.
We also recommend bringing personal masks, a pair of disposable gloves, and a personal first aid kit. (From a safety perspective, this offers additional protection against Covid-19 if there were to be an accident and first aid is required by me or the rescue teams. Sorry we know it seems onerous but, given current government guidelines, these are currently being proposed by all guides.)
LEVEL: EASY - approximately 1 mile in open, hilly and rocky moorland.
Route is dependent on weather conditions and group pace'.
CANCELLATION: If the weather is unfavourable, we will contact you the evening before or on Saturday morning to let you know that we will be going to a local indoor venue instead. We have planned talks, night skies presentations, and a quiz. Then if the weather clears during our evening, we can still go out into the venue garden with our telescopes. Please keep an eye on your emails (and spam folder) just in case.
Payments are refunded (less the booking fee) for cancellations no less than six weeks before your walk or experience.
Dartmoor’s Daughter has received the ‘We’re Good to Go’ Industry Standard Certificate. If you have a cold, flu, cough, temperature or are diagnosed with COVID-19 please do not join the walk. You will be able to transfer your booking to another walk.
RISK: Walks and activities are at your own risk. No liability accepted for accidents or incidents.