North Ronaldsay’s dark skies awarded international status
North Ronaldsay’s dark skies have achieved international recognition. The island has been designated as an International Dark Sky Community, one of just over 30 worldwide. It’s on an elite list that ranges from Flagstaff, Arizona, to Fulda in Germany. Only two other places in Scotland have this status – the island of Coll and the town of Moffat.
Midwinter astronomy success
Amidst wind, rain and occasion flurries of snow, there were also several fine frosty nights for 'Dark Skies Orkney'. The midwinter astronomy programme of events was coordinated
Dark Skies Orkney 2011
This was a pilot event, where the Science Festival collaborated with local tourism and community groups, and there were some lively talks and outings.
Midwinter astronomy festival for Orkney
Orkney had a midwinter astronomy festival in December 2011. Talks and stargazing took place across the mainland from Birsay to Deerness, and in Stronsay and Sanday as well.
See Orkney skies on the iPad!
See Orkney skies on the iPad! To promote the 'Dark Skies Orkney' event of December 2011 and Orkney astronomy generally, a new e-magazine was produced for iPad and web access.It includes a feature on astronomy in Orkney with auroral photographs taken by John Vetterlein in Rousay and night sky images from Michael Sinclair in Kirkwall. John and Michael are the co-founders
North Ronaldsay night sky photography competition
The skies above Orkney’s most northerly island are among the darkest in Europe. The winning images from the first two second annual competitions for North Ronaldsay night sky photographs shows the sharpness and clarity with which features can be seen.
