Eye Spy – The Launch of Kielder Observatory

Kielder Water & Forest Park, situated in the upper reaches of the North Tyne Valley about 70 miles from Edinburgh, has long been a favourite location for a day out or a weekend away. There is a host of outdoor activities on land and water –trekking trails, cycle routes, sailing clubs and wildlife spotting. This year, however, a new star attraction will lure visitors to the area – the purpose built Kielder Observatory which was launched on April 25^th by Sir Arnold Wolfendale, the 14^th Astronomer Royal.

For many years, keen astronomers have been aware that Kielder has the darkest night skies in England, due to minimal light pollution. Star Camps have been held here twice a year, attracting many keen amateur astronomers from all over Britain. This made the Black Fell hilltop location a prime site for the new timber build observatory that went from concept to completion in only 5 years.

Charles Barclay Architects fought off 230 international entries to win the design competition. Their concept was that of a ship rising out of the ground. They designed a “land-pier” which follows the lie of the land and enables two telescopes to function simultaneously without interfering with each other’s line of vision. The elevated deck also serves as a viewing platform.

“We wanted the experience of standing on the observation deck at night to be akin to experiencing the stars from the deck of a ship at sea,” said Charles Barclay.

The weekend of April 26^th-27^th saw the first Family Open Days, when free tours from Kielder Castle took excited visitors up to the observatory site.

There is still some work to be done before all is finally ship-shape, however, not least of which is the installation of the large 20” telescope at the “prow” of the building. The smaller 14” computer driven telescope is already installed and in the long term will be accessible to anyone with a computer link up. The building is remote from mains power so is “eco” by necessity, using wind and solar power. The other driving force behind this stunning new asset in the area is Gary Fildes, Chairman of the newly formed Kielder Observatory Astronomical Society, which will take on the day-to-day running of the building. There will be talks and tours, dark sky observations, educational and research projects.

It is hoped that all will be ready by the 24^th May when general access should be possible for view seekers and astronomers with their own equipment. Observatory telescopes will be accessible only when visitors are accompanied by Observatory staff. The Observatory programme will be launched in July when there will be more information about how to take part in sessions to use the telescopes.

Visit the website for contact details: http://www.kielder-observatory.org