THERE?is a chance to experience the incredibly dark night sky of Bodmin Moor at a stargazing event led by Caradon and Tolcarn Observatories on Saturday (August 19) at Jamaica Inn.

The event is one of a series showcasing the exceptional quality of the night sky over Bodmin Moor, which was designated as an International Dark Sky Landscape in July after a successful bid by Cornwall Council and Caradon Observatory.

The dark sky evening will be in two parts. At 7pm there will be a dinner event. This will be followed by a free stargazing session at 8.30pm, which is open to everyone.

The dinner event will include an introduction to Bodmin Moor’s International Dark Sky designation and talks on exoplanets and the solar system’s giant planets by Grant Mackintosh and Mike Willmott, who are both Fellows of the Royal Astronomical Association.

There will also be a demonstration of the Magic Planet, an interactive globe that depicts the beauty and topography of solar systems.

The free stargazing session will start at 8.30pm with a chance to chat with the astronomers. People should wrap up warm and keep their fingers crossed for clear skies. Outside observing will begin from 9pm, after the sun has set.

There will be an array of telescopes for viewing the night sky, including a 12-inch telescope on loan from First Light Optics in Exeter.

The Milky Way will be arching high overhead from north to south. If the sky and horizon are clear, there will be a chance to see Jupiter before it sets.

Saturn will be due south and will be the main focus for viewing. There may also be an opportunity to glimpse Neptune when it rises later in the evening.

Dr Wayne Thomas from Caradon Observatory said: “This event is a chance for people to come along and enjoy a view of the stars in one of the darkest areas of night sky in the country. Being bathed in the glory of the Milky Way on Bodmin Moor is a breathtaking experience, and viewing planets and galaxies through telescope brings home just how vast and awe inspiring our universe is.”

Bob Egerton, Cornwall Council cabinet member for planning and economy, said: “There’s a growing interest in astronomy and space sciences in Cornwall, including the potential for a spaceport at Newquay. Bodmin Moor’s International Dark Sky Landscape designation helps to protect its exceptionally dark and clear skies from light pollution, ensuring that it remains one of Cornwall’s star attractions for amateur stargazers, astronomers, and astrophysicists alike.”