Aurora Hunting in the North Pennines

This year we have been lucky enough to witness the magical phenomena of the Aurora Borealis or Northern Lights, right here in the North Pennines.

Aurorae are now very well understood by physicists worldwide, but for thousands of years they played a part in many communities' religions, fairytales and folklore. Join us on a journey that begins with the history of the Northern Lights and continues with our scientific understanding of the aurora today.

Our expert astronomer Roy Alexander will be leading this event. He will give you the knowledge and understanding you need to hunt the Aurora Borealis for yourselves. You'll learn the basics of the science behind how they are created, how to find them, which apps to use, and some hints and tips on how to photograph them successfully.

If the sky is clear after the talk, we'll take a tour of the night sky with our 11-inch Celestion telescope in the observatory. And if we are very lucky, we might even see some aurora!

Observing the skies is weather-dependent11-inch, but you'll be pleased to know that events go ahead whatever the weather and we aim to deliver exciting and interesting events every time. The Northern Lights are a random natural occurrence, and our aurora hunting night is about preparing for the occasions when they are visible, aurora may or may not be visible on the night.

Wrap up warm and bring a red light torch (if you have one). Access to the North Pennines Observatory is via a steep access road and has limited space for parking – please park considerately in the village and walk up or call to reserve a parking space. Warm drinks provided.

Doors open 6.45pm. Please arrive early for welcome hot drinks. The presentation will allow plenty of time for questions and discussion and the last half hour, depending on the weather, will be reserved for stargazing.

This event is part of the North Pennines Stargazing Festival running from 25 October to 3 November 2024 – #NorthPennStarFest24 #NPennDarkSkies

Ask about stargazing sleepovers at the onsite accommodation at the Observatory Cabin (up to 3 people) or the larger 4-bedroom accommodation at the Old School House. Book for this event or another private, bespoke stargazing experience. Contact [email protected] for more information.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

ACA Observatory, Allenheads, Old School House, Hexham, United Kingdom