The UK Dark Sky Discovery Partnership is a network of national and local astronomy and environmental organisations, namely:
Association of Science and Discovery Centres British Astronomical Association Federation of Astronomical Societies Royal Astronomical Society Royal Observatory Edinburgh Society for Popular Astronomy
The Dark Sky Discovery Project is funded by Natural England and the Science and Technology Facilities Council, and its aims are to:
· Engage people from diverse backgrounds with the night sky
· Encourage positive attitudes towards science and technology
· Support the development of dark sky places, awareness and tourism
· Develop a national network of dark sky communicators
· Create long-lasting organisational partnerships in this area.
A regional approach is being adopted to achieve these aims across England, and Space Connections Enterprises has been appointed to co-ordinate activities within the Yorkshire and Humberside region in conjunction with the Y|E|S net. The contact is Amber Ross on 0845 652 2406.
The outline Dark Sky Discovery plan for this region is:
1. To hold an enlarged Y|E|S net pre-launch meeting early in October 2011 (DONE)
2. To attend the national launch on 24 October 2011 (DONE)
3. To hold a regional launch event early in November 2011 (DONE)
4. To work with community groups and schools to nominate local Dark Sky Discovery Sites (best places in the local area from which to see the stars).
5. To hold a Dark Sky event in each sub-region.
You can find out more about the National project on www.darkskydiscovery.org.uk/
A very successful regional launch took place on 10 November 2011 at the National STEM Centre in York. the event was attended by Dan Hillier, Director of Dark Sky Discovery UK and representatives of national, regional and local organisations.
See attendance list and programme for the above event.
It was especially pleasing to see a number of local astronomical societies in attendance.
Many thanks to all who contributed to the success of this event.
Links to Dark Sky Discovery (DSD) Documents:
1. Guidelines for DSD Sites
2. Nomination form for DSD sites
3. DSD Site example
19/11/2011