Sark, the world’s first dark sky island, will open an observatory on October 10.
The tiny Channel Island was designated as the world’s first Dark Sky Island in 2011 by the International Dark-Sky Association and is now one of only two in the world.
The award recognises the blackness of the night sky, and the observatory opening aims to boost astro-tourism on the island.
Sark’s dark skies come from its isolated location in the English Channel, its complete lack of public street lighting (and very few outdoor lights on buildings) and low pollution levels.
Motor vehicles, with the exception of a few tractors, are banned on the island so the air pollution is extremely low leaving clear skies.
The observatory will be located in the middle of the island which is the darkest area and will be a two room structure with a sliding roof. One room will house the telescope and the other will be a ‘warm room’ with a screen linking to the telescope for watching the skies in comfort.
The opening of the observatory will tie in with a new ‘Sark Trek’ weekend from October 9-11. Hosted by two astronomers, it will involve 14 hours of learning and stargazing activities.
Guests will be able to enjoy a pop up planetarium, a session learning how to use an array of astronomical equipment and a photography lesson on how best to capture the night sky.
Stocks Hotel is offering a two night stay over the Sark Trek weekend from £270pp including two nights accommodation, breakfast and evening meals. See stockshotel.com.
For more on Stark and its dark skies, see sastros.sark.gg
