You do not need to be an astronomer to appreciate dark skies; they inspire poets, artists and photographers. However, if you are in any way, shape or form interested in what lies beyond our home planet, Sark is a place where you can really appreciate our dark skies.
You don’t need a telescope to see the wonderful display of stars above Sark. You can see a host of stars and planets with the naked eye. Taking a walk at night on Sark can be very rewarding. Anywhere away from artificial light is easy to find here. Head out with sensible footwear and a torch for finding your way, and you will be impressed by what you can see without any equipment. During the summer months the evenings do not get properly dark until about 10pm but the winter and spring months are perfect for star-gazing when the sun sets earlier and is lower in the sky.
Check the forecast to see if it’s going to be clear enough. We use XC weather, which is on the computer screen at the back of our office.  We also recommend looking at the Guernsey airport forecast www.bbc.co.uk/weather/6296594/.
If you are interested in seeing our observatory, we can help arrange this but you will need a volunteer guide to accompany you. We are happy to contact the appropriate person for you. Up to 8 people can be accommodated in the scope room but sometimes others can use the smaller scopes outside the observatory.
Please enquire at the Visitor Centre. You can call us on 01481 832345.
The observatory is signposted opposite the Church.
Donations can be made in the donation box at the site.  The recommended amount is £5 per person.