DAYSOUT
Stargazing Nights & Wintry Heights cont... iK’ S TOP TIPS FOR STARGAZING SUCCESS
TIME IT RIGHT Clear, crisp winter nights are the best for stargazing. Be sure to check moon phases- around a new moon you’ ll get the darkest skies and the most vivid stars.
DRESS FOR THE WEATHER Standing still can get chilly very swiftly, so wrap up warm with thick socks, scarves and gloves and pack a flask of something hot.
EQUIPMENT ESSENTIALS Use a red torch to protect your night vision. While stargazing doesn’ t require a kit, binoculars and a beginner’ s telescope can take your experience to the next level.
MAKE USE OF TOP TECH Fantastic apps such as Sky Safari and websites such as Go Stargazing( gostargazing. co. uk) are a great way to help identify constellations, track meteor showers and pinpoint the darkest nights and best viewing locations.
CAPTURE THE MOMENT Night mode or long exposure and a steady surface are key to taking wonderful starry images, whether on a phone or camera. You’ ll be amazed with how much more a lens can capture compared to the naked eye.
EXPAND YOUR HORIZONS Across the county, local astronomy groups and observatories host regular meet-ups, talks and public viewing nights. Societies such as Ashford Astronomical Society and the Mid-Kent Astronomical Society offer great opportunities to learn from enthusiasts and experience the night sky together.
ADJUST YOUR EYES Give your eyes at least 15- 20 minutes to fully adjust to the dark before scanning the sky. Avoid looking at phone screens or bright lights during this time and your natural night vision will sharpen, revealing far more stars and celestial detail than you’ d otherwise see.
© Dirk Seyfried Photography
DUNGENESS LIGHTHOUSE
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