Stories about the stars can be found all across the world and throughout history including in Greek mythology; by the Aborigines in Australia; the Tupi people in Brazil; and the ‘star people’ or Lakota in North America say they brought spiritual teachings, stories and maps of the cosmos which they then offered freely.
Dartmoor’s Daughter will lead us on a gentle walk up to Hound Tor and introduce the Dartmoor context followed by Dartmoor Skies who will guide you through the visible constellations and set up telescopes so you can explore the night sky at your leisure.
This walk has been designed to coincide with International Dark Sky Week – http://www.darksky.org/
If the weather isn’t favourable, our back up plan will be tea and talks with slides and a quiz at a nearby village pub where we will bring the telescopes out if the weather clears at any point during the evening.
What to bring: Snacks, drinks, sturdy walking boots, plenty of warm layers, waterproof jacket & trousers, something to sit on, (head)torches with red film covers (this helps our eyes adjust so that objects in the night sky are easier to see) or rear bicycle lamps. (Please take home everything you bring with you – Dartmoor is a unique moorland environment with livestock, wildlife and fauna so we aim to leave no trace please.)
MEETING TIME & PLACE: 7.45pm for 8pm start at Swallerton Gate car park (near Hound Tor). Grid Ref SX 739 792. Nearest postcode for SatNav is TQ13 9XG (approx location only). Car sharing is encouraged please. There are no public toilets here.
LEVEL: 1 out of 3. The walk is a short uphill stroll with some rocky sections where we will then sit together to enjoy talks and viewing through telescopes.
PRICE: £12 per adult. £5 under 16. Family discount 10% for 2 adults with 2 children. Booking here
Dartmoor Skies is a charity that aims to inspire people about astronomy and science. 50% of the event profits go towards their funding and equipment – https://dartmoorskies.org/
Dartmoor’s Daughter creates walks and nature-connection experiences to enhance health, wellbeing and performance. All on the ancient, wild and beautiful land of Dartmoor.
WET WEATHER/CLOUDY SKIES PLAN: If the weather isn’t conducive, then instead we will enjoy our evening inside together with tea, talks and slides at a local village pub. Please check your emails on the morning of the event to know where to meet.
BOOKING: Group size is limited to pre-booking is essential.
Cancellation: This event will go ahead whatever the weather. Sorry no refunds if you are unable to attend.