(From this thread (http://forum.orpington-astronomy.org.uk/index.php?topic=3286.0)... )
An observatory has opened in an area of Northumberland recognised as having the least light pollution in England.
The £450,000 Kielder Observatory will offer astronomers views of the universe uncluttered by intruding light from towns and cities.
The timber structure is perched on a hilltop location on Black Fell and was chosen because the area is famous for having the darkest skies in England.
More: http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/england/tyne/7366394.stm
So that's why it's called Black Fell!
At the last committee meeting I was given the task of sussing out places with dark skies for a potential weeks holiday for OAS members in other parts of the country (like we went to COAA as a group for a week). This looks a pretty good place to go for observing, plus there is some beautiful countryside to explore in the daytime.
So before I put too much energy into investigating this and the possibilites, how many campers would be interested in a week in the Black Fell Keilder area at some point in the future?
If there is enough interest I am happy to investigate this further. Also if there are non campers I would also be willing to look into nearby B&B.
Also if we were to do something like this would members want to drive or take a coach (bearing in mind that lots of equipment needs to go up as well, we would probably have to allow space for this, although some could go in the luggage compartment).
I'll have a go at working out how to do a poll, so look for a new posting.
Carole
I'm going camping in September. Might try here :)
Hi Mike,
Delphine is going up that way fairly soon and she said she would find out some information, so if you do go up there, perhaps you could suss it out too if I haven't managed to do so by then. Once I know enough people are interested I will suss out camping sites and B&B if needed and also contact the observatory.
Many thanks
Carole