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 as we have no street lights on Sark. 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 the skies are clear.

If you wish to learn a little more you could visit the observatory.  Up to 8 people can be accommodated in the scope room but sometimes others can use the smaller scopes outside the observatory.

The Observatory is run by volunteers and you can book direct with them by telephoning Richard Axton  01481 832570, Jo Birch 07781 467920 or
Reg Guille 07781 132156.
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.

The following images are courtesy of professional angler Christopher Kennedy-Barnard who has caught some great images of the night sky whilst going out fishing.