Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Stargazing
One of the paradoxes of modern life is that the more
we know about the universe, the less most of us can
see of it, thanks to light pollution. So camping can be a
great opportunity to reconnect with the night sky.
The changing sky
What you see varies depending on both the time of
year and the time of night. And while the stars appear
in the same places from year to year, the positions of
the Moon and planets are constantly changing. Unless
you are close to the equator, the constellations around
the celestial poles will always remain above the
horizon as the Earth rotates, and are known as
circumpolar. Computer programs can now predict the
night sky at any given time and date, but while
camping you can also use a chart called a planisphere.
Adapting to the dark
At night, your eyes become much more sensitive, but
this “dark adaptation” builds slowly. Allow ten minutes
for your eyes to adjust before you start, and to
preserve your night vision, use a flashlight with a red
filter. You don't need special equipment, just a good
novice's introduction to astronomy. Binoculars will
reveal extra detail on the moon, and highlight other
notable planets, but a pair of naked eyes will suffice.
The Milky Way is spectacular in a
clear night sky.
