OM Dark Sky Park & Observatory is an International Dark Sky Park and observatory located in Davagh Forest in the Sperrin Mountains, County Tyrone, Northern Ireland. It’s one of the officially designated dark-sky places recognised by the International Dark-Sky Association — meaning the area has exceptionally low light pollution and superb natural night skies ideal for astronomy and astrophotography. The site blends astronomy with archaeology, as it’s close to the ancient Beaghmore Stone Circles.

On March 21st join them at OM for one of hheir New Moon Observing Sessions. A New Moon occurs every month when the Moon is not visible in our night sky and therefore it is the best time for stargazing. Galaxies, star clusters and the Milky Way are all fainter Deep Sky Objects which are best viewed during this darkest phase of the month. When skies are clear we will observe different objects using our range of telescopes and help you identify constellations. You will also visit our Observatory where we use our 14-inch Meade telescope and ZWO ASI2600MC imaging system to demonstrate live astrophotography. Enjoy the darkest sky in Northern Ireland’s only dark sky park.

See:  https://omdarksky.com/guided-tours/new-moon-observing-sessions/

New Moon Observing Session 8pm-9:30pm. £12.00

If observing is not possible due to weather our alternative programme includes:

• A short Dark Sky guided nature walk
• Beginners guide to astrophotography showcasing a range of equipment
• A deep-dive into our chosen Deep Sky Object of the Month
• The latest deep space observations from large space telescopes and NASA’s archives.
• Always an enjoyable evening for all levels of astronomy enthusiasts.