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Starry Skies at The Sound

Stars over the Calf of Man by Glen Whorral

Not much use to us in the US, but tickets are now on sale for ‘Dark Skies at The Sound’ on Saturday 16^th November, an evening supper and opportunity to stargaze at one of the Island’s most dramatic coastlines and accredited Dark Skies location. Participants can explore the wonders of the November night sky with guidance from astronomer Howard Parkin following a two-course hot buffet supper at The Sound Café from 8pm.

It is the first stargazing event of its kind at The Sound since it was designated a Dark Sky Discovery Site under the Dark Skies Discovery Initiative a year ago. With the November skies being most clear, it is perfect timing to enjoy an evening with a difference.
Astronomer Howard Parkin said;
‘The November sky is spectacular, with the majestic winter constellations of Orion, Taurus and Gemini rising from the East, and the Autumn Constellations of Pegasus, Andromeda and Pisces setting in the West. In Andromeda we have the magnificent sight of the Andromeda Galaxy which can be seen with the naked eye.’
Howard continued;
‘November 16^th is also the start of the peak of the Leonid meteor shower, and we have the possibility of seeing Leonid meteors (or shooting stars) appearing from the constellation of Leo the lion. Whilst the full Moon will mean only the brightest Leonids will be seen this year, it will be worth looking towards the Eastern horizon later in the evening or early morning. You may be rewarded with the sight of some bright and fast meteors from what can be a spectacular shower. This has not been the case in recent years, but the Leonids might just roar in 2013.Obviously we are hoping for clear skies, in which case we will, after dinner, head outside to see the splendour of the heavens.’

If it is cloudy, Howard will provide an illustrated multi-media lecture following supper on what to look for in the Manx night skies over the upcoming winter months.

Tickets are £24 to £30 to include return travel, available now at the Manx Museum Gallery Shop and online. A warming two-course buffet supper with a choice of options and tea or coffee is included in the ticket price. The return coach package includes stops Douglas, Castletown, Port Erin and Port St. Mary. The coach departs Douglas Sea Terminal at 18.45. For further coach times, menu and to purchase tickets see our websitewww.manxnationalheritage.im.