The North York Moors National Park is inviting visitors to experience the magic of the night sky with the launch of a new state-of-the-art observatory and the introduction of the ancient Dutch ritual of dusking, as part of this year’s Dark Skies Festival from 13 February to 1 March.
Dusking encourages people to sit together at twilight and watch the day fade into darkness before lighting any lamps. Dutch author and poet Marjolijn van Heemstra will guide participants through the practice, using a specially created sound recording that blends music and narrative to show how twilight can calm the mind and improve wellbeing.
The Festival will also unveil the Dark Skies Station at Danby Lodge National Park Centre. The fully accessible observatory includes a multi-sensory exhibition called “Discover the Universe”. It will host stargazing events led by Astro Dog, as well as a “Tour of the Universe” evening with space scientist Neil Phillipson.
Visitors can also enjoy a reading by author Megan Eaves-Egenes from her book Nightfaring: In Search of the Disappearing Darkness on 17 February. Outdoor enthusiasts can take part in a 65km day-into-night cycling event at Sutton Bank on 28 February, riding under the stars across open moorland and woods.
Across the Yorkshire Dales, the Festival offers a variety of stargazing events, including the star party at Keld, sessions at Yorebridge House in Wensleydale, and a fireball camera display at Maulds Meaburn Village Institute. New venues like The Green Howards Museum in Richmond will host astronomy talks and stargazing, while guided night walks will take place at Malham, Kettlewell, Sutton Bank, Robin Hood’s Bay, Clay Bank, and Helmsley.
The Festival also explores the impact of light pollution. Dr Jen Hall from York St John University will lead discussions on how artificial light affects both people and wildlife. Meanwhile, Birkdale Farm in Terrington will showcase how reducing external lighting has helped the village become a Dark Sky-Friendly Community.
There are plenty of family-friendly and creative activities too, including Planet and Constellation trails at Aysgarth, a Dark Skies trail at Danby Lodge, night photography workshops in Whitby, and themed arts and crafts sessions at the Dales Countryside Museum.
Vicky Burton, Marketing Officer at North York Moors National Park, said: “Spending time outside in natural darkness can calm busy minds, lift moods, and inspire a sense of wonder. This year’s Festival gives people a safe and magical way to experience the night sky, and we’re excited to introduce dusking as a simple, mindful way to enjoy twilight and the beauty of the National Parks.”
For full event details and bookings, visit www.darkskiesnationalparks.org.uk
