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This is the place to come for information on forthcoming observing evenings organised by Newbury AS.
There's nothing quite like observing with a group of like-minded individuals and so Newbury Astro holds occasional observing evenings, either timed for the dark of the moon or a date that coincides with an event such as a meteor shower, eclipse or conjunction of planets. Observing may be at Stockcross Recreation Field, or a location like Val Russell's farm, or others as appropriate and communicated to members at the time.
As this is the UK, we have to contend with the ever-present risk of clouds so whilst dates of prospective events will be posted on the website and on this page, actually going ahead will be confirmed much closer to any event. As a result, we are using the society WhatsApp group alongside email updates to co-ordinate. If you're a NAS member and are interested, but not yet on the WhatsApp group, please reach out to Victoria at secretary@newburyastro.org.uk and we'll get you enrolled.
Getting to Stockcross Recreation Field
For those of you who have not been to Stockcross Recreation Field before, it's easy to find, situated to the north side of the B4000 at the western end of Stockcross. There is a car park just inside the entrance on the left, where society members may be setting up telescopes so if arriving in the dusk or dark, please dip your lights once off the road and take extra care for astronomers moving around in the dark!
If you are making your way to the field before a Beginners Meeting as it is starting with observing there, you could also park at the Sutton Hall (Village Hall) and the recreation field is a short walk away as shown on the map here.
Newbury Astronomical Society – Star gazing with us (hints and tips):
We want you to enjoy your star gazing experience with us so here are some handy hints on what to do – and what not to do – on the night.
Enjoy the dark
When entering the stargazing area wait a minute or so for your eyes to become accustomed to the darkness. Then you’ll be able to see where you’re going much more clearly.
If you must bring a car near the observing area, be careful that your headlights and interior lights don’t shine at or near the observers. Don’t shine bright lights about; if you use a torch keep it pointed at the ground. Red light is best to preserve your night vision, so use a red torch - or cover your light with red cellophane - to maintain your dark adaption, and that of the other stargazers around you.
And if you want to take pictures with your mobile phone, please make sure the flash is OFF!
Wrap up warm
You won’t enjoy being outside if you’re cold and damp – and it’s chilly at night even in the summer! Wear plenty of warm layers, waterproof footwear, and hats & gloves. Also, think about bringing a flask of hot drink to help to keep you warm.
Watch your step
The stargazing area will have telescopes and equipment dotted around. The ground may also be uneven, damp, or possibly icy. Please be careful when walking about so as not to slip, or trip over and hurt yourself.
If you’ve got small people with you keep them supervised at all times
It will be dark, and possibly crowded, outside so it’s easy for young people to wander off and get lost. Always keep pets, and children, under control in the stargazing area.
Stand well clear of telescopes when not actually observing
If a telescope is bumped it could swing round & hurt someone – or you might trip over a tripod or other equipment. Keep your distance until you come to look through it.
Please don’t touch telescopes without permission
Telescopes will be lined up on an interesting object for you to see. Even nudging them slightly could cause them to lose what they’re pointed at, and it might take time for the person manning the telescope to find it again.
Please don’t take food or drink near the astronomical equipment, and don’t touch any glass or reflective surface on a telescope. Dirt, and grease from your fingers, will mark lenses and mirrors and make them more difficult to see with.
Take your time
Looking through a telescope takes practice. The atmosphere above us is unsteady and this can make whatever you’re observing look fuzzy or blurred. Make yourself comfortable, relax and take a good long look - watch for moments of steadiness when you can see more detail. It’s amazing how much more you’ll see with a little practice!
Please ask us
Our Society is full of experienced skywatchers who love talking about their hobby, so we’ll be happy to try and answer any astronomy or stargazing questions you have.
And, above all -
Enjoy your stargazing!
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