Discovering Scilly's Dark Night Skies
The Isles of Scilly AONB Partnership is working with the Dark Sky Discovery Programme to nominate Dark Sky Discovery Sites across the Isles of Scilly.
Dark Sky Discovery (DSD) is a partnership of national and local astronomy and environmental organisations whose aim is to:
*Engage people from a diverse range of backgrounds with the Dark Night Sky;
*Encourage positive attitudes towards science and technology;
*Support the development of dark sky places for local awareness and tourism;
*Develop a national network of dark sky communicators;
*Create long-lasting organisational partnerships in this area.
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What are Dark Sky Discovery Sites (DSDS)?
DSDS are local sites that are great for viewing the night's sky and are accessible to all.
The Dark Sky Discovery Partnership is working to create a network of sites across the UK.
In the South West there is a DSDS within Exmoor National Park Dark Sky Reserve.
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Where are the proposed Dark Sky Discovery Sites in Scilly?
Scilly is a great place for viewing the stars due to low levels of light pollution and clean air, especially at the more remote locations.
The following sites have been chosen as they provide great views of the night's sky and are accessible to all:
*St Mary's- The Garrison Playing Field
*St Agnes- The Cricket Pitch
*Bryher- The Community Centre Play Area
*Tresco- The Playing Fields (Old Grimsby)
*St Martin's- The Cricket Pitch, Pool Green
Nominations for these sites will be taken forward at the end of August 2012.
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What does this mean for Scilly?
If nominations for Scilly's proposed sites are successful, they will join a network of other sites across the UK.
The sites will be promoted through the DSD partnership . This means that people who are interested in astronomy will be able to view locations in the UK which are recognised as good for stargazing.
Those connected to the tourism industry in Scilly can promote Scilly's dark night skies, adding to the visitor experience.
Star Gazing walks may be held at these sites during the Autumn/Winter months offering local residents and visitors the opportunity to discover Scilly's dark night skies.
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