Free stargazing events at the town's Redoubt Fortress

Eastbourne's Redoubt Fortress will host its second in this year's quartet of Stargazing Evenings later in February, making a dazzling event for keen stargazers and families.
Picture by Ryan Wick SUS-160402-111802001Picture by Ryan Wick SUS-160402-111802001
Picture by Ryan Wick SUS-160402-111802001

Visitors can peer at the night sky from the gun platform of the Redoubt Fortress on February 13 from 6pm, in a free evening being hosted by the Eastbourne Astronomical Society.

Stargazers are expected to be able to see craters on the moon, stars in the galaxy, as well as small points of light in the far-off distance, which unbeknown to the naked eye are actually new stars being formed - the Orion nebulae.

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There will also be an indoor presentation by passionate astronomers from the Eastbourne Astronomical Society, providing a family-friendly tour of the night sky, guidance on how to use a telescope and some fascinating astronomical facts. Anyone with an interest in astronomy, beginners or more experienced stargazers, and anyone who wants to learn more about the night sky, are welcomed and encouraged to attend the free event.

Cllr Margaret Bannister, Eastbourne Borough Council lead cabinet member for culture, tourism and enterprise, said, “There aren’t many places in the UK which can offer a free and romantic event at an historical Napoleonic fortress located on a stunning Victorian seafront, which makes this a rather unique and special series of events!

“The first stargazing event of the year back in January, was a great success and with slightly warmer temperatures and clearer skies in February, this month’s stargazing event promises to offer a magical experience, whether spent with friends, family or a Valentine.”

Following the popularity of last year’s trio of stargazing events, this year sees a fourth evening being introduced, as the Redoubt takes the stargazing events from winter into spring, with an extra evening of stargazing added to the spring calendar in April.

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The Stargazing at the Redoubt Fortress series continues on March 12 at 7pm with the final event being held on April 16 at 8pm.

In March and April the planets of Jupiter and Mars will be able to be viewed through a telescope, provided the weather offers clear skies.

Telescopes will be provided by members of the Eastbourne Astronomical Society, but those taking part are encouraged to bring their own telescopes or binoculars if they wish. Visitors are also reminded to wrap-up warm and encouraged to bring hot drink flasks to also help in keeping warm.

As Eastbourne is situated on the coast, it’s a great location for stargazing, enabling clearer skies over the sea than can be found at some inland locations. The South Downs National Park which has recently submitted a bid to become an International Dark Sky Reserve.

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For further information on Stargazing at the Redoubt Fortress visit www.EastbourneMuseums.co.uk.

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