Stargazing in England can be a bit of a challenge, with its notorious reputation for unpredictable weather and ubiquitous clouds (See image above). But here at Cassiotrio, we believe that when the skies do clear up, it’s essential to make the most of those rare moments to capture the full splendor of the heavens above. So, how do we plan our observation days to ensure the best sky for stargazing?
Know Your Light Pollution
One of the first steps in planning a successful stargazing session is understanding the light pollution situation in your area. Living and operating mainly within the Surrey Downs and the Surrey Hills, we’ve familiarised ourselves with the light pollution map using resources like Light Pollution Map. This tool allows us to gauge the levels of light pollution and determine how far we need to travel for a darker sky. Pro tip: switch the map from VIIRS to World Atlas 2015 for more accurate ground-level observations, even though it’s a tad outdated.
Monitor Cloud Cover
Keeping an eye on cloud cover is crucial for planning successful stargazing outings. We regularly check the cloud coverage map on the Met Office website to get a sense of upcoming weather patterns. However, English weather can be unpredictable, so always have a backup location in mind in case a sudden cloud cover obscures your original spot.
Plan Your Journey
It’s essential to plan your journey so that, if possible, you can arrive at your location before moonrise. This way, you can enjoy gazing without the moon’s illumination impacting your experience. Avoid stargazing when the moon is on or close to the full moon phase, as it can wash out the visibility of fainter objects in the sky.
If you’re driving to your stargazing spot, make sure to plan your parking situation. Additionally, it’s a good idea to contact local authorities, such as nature reserve wardens, about any questions or concerns you may have about the area or location. Some locations may be a bit daunting to venture into during the darkest of nights, so it’s always wise to seek guidance and ensure your safety.
Happy stargazing, Kairo
Cassiotrio Team