FAMILIES in Teesdale will get to learn more about the dark skies without leaving the comfort of their living rooms thanks to two virtual workshops organised by the TCR Hub.
Gary Fildes, lead astronomer at the state-of-the-art Grassholme Observatory, which opened last August, will host the virtual workshops using Zoom on Mondays, March 15, and March 22.
In the first session, What’s in the Sky Tonight, Mr Fildes, will guide people through the winter star fields.
The purpose-built observatory, which has a retractable roof and a computer that guides the telescope into pinpoint positions to see individual planets and stars, has been closed to the public due to Covid-19 restrictions.
Grassholme Reservoir was chosen for the observatory to take advantage of Teesdale’s dark skies. Sarah Gent, family activities co-ordinator at the TCR Hub, said: “We are so pleased to be working with the observatory to enable families to enjoy this amazing resource here in Teesdale, before going to explore it in the flesh when it can re-open.
“If the skies are clear, Gary will show what we can see above Teesdale around the spring equinox through the telescope, via Zoom.
“If we have a cloudy evening, he will be able to share footage from clear evenings so we won’t miss out on the experience.”
It is hoped the observatory will re-open to the public later this year when people will be able to gaze into the vastness and beauty of the universe.
In the meantime, the virtual workshops will provide star gazers with an opportunity to see the solar system while sitting on a sofa.
A family ticket to the virtual workshop costs £4 and includes a planisphere, which will be delivered to your door before the workshop. Fully funded places are available.
To book, or for more information, visit the TCR Hub’s website at tcrhub.co.uk/whats-on/
