A programme of free stargazing events has been announced for the autumn and winter seasons.
Eastbourne Astronomical Society runs the public observations in conjunction with Eastbourne Borough Council outside The Beachy Head Story visitor centre.
Members of the society will have their telescopes and specialised cameras out and be on hand to answer questions and help people discover the night sky.
The first stargazing event will take place on Saturday, October 21 from 6-8pm with the following month’s observation on Saturday, November 18, from 5-7pm.
At those two events, the Moon will be at its first quarter which will allow stargazers to see the Sun rising on some of the lunar craters.
The largest of the planets – Jupiter - will be available to view and, through the telescopes, people may see up to four of Jupiter’s moons. The beautiful ringed planet Saturn is in the evening sky too and stargazers may be able to view Venus as it sets in the west.
It is also hoped that some of the constellations will be identified including Pegasus the winged horse and Andromeda the Queen. Lucky stargazers may also be able to see a faint patch of light which is the Andromeda Galaxy, made up of millions of stars more than two million miles from Earth.
Mark Jarvis - Andromeda Galaxy
At all the stargazing events, a short introductory talk will take place in The Beachy Head Story throughout the evening.
There are two further events in 2024 on Saturday, January 27 from 5–7pm and Saturday, February 24 from 6–8pm.
The start times change from month to month to accommodate the changing time of the Sun setting.
Councillor Margaret Bannister, Eastbourne Borough Council’s Lead Member for Tourism, Leisure, Accessibility & Community Safety, said:
“These really are fantastic events for all the family to enjoy.
“Each session is ability friendly and held early in the evenings to make it family friendly. People can wrap up warmly and enjoy discovering the delights of the night sky with the very knowledgeable members of the Eastbourne Astronomical Society on hand to help.”
All stargazing events are dependent upon weather and sky visibility. For more information visit HeritageEastbourne.co.uk
Brighton Defence Manufacturer's Controversial Planning Application Likely To Be Heard
Over £2.4m Approved For Worthing School Support Centre
Section Of M25 To Close Again Tonight - As Drivers Warned Not To Get Complacent
Plans For 800 New Horsham Homes Refused
Over 200 Co-Living Flats Approved For Brighton
Teenager In Custody On Crawley Attempted Murder Charge
Appeal Following Assault In Hastings
Road Closed As Armed Police Attend Incident In Worthing
Lewes District Council Placed In Planning Special Measures
‘Life-Changing’ Medication For Asthma Patients Now Available In Sussex