8 Tips for Star Gazing in Winter

An absence of street lighting combined with a sparse population, Birch Grove Cabin's location offers a chance to experience the night sky at its best. We have put together some star gazing equipment to enable you to make the most of the dark sky, combined with some tips for observing the heavens.

Books

A bit of research in advance can make observation of the stars and planets more rewarding. We have a range of books including one specifically about star gazing in Scotland titled, "A Guide to Scotland's Night Sky by Andrew Allan".

Apps

If you have a smart phone, download a star navigation app, there are some great ones to choose from. Here are just a few suggestions of free apps, Sky View Lite, Stellarium, Star Walk 2.

Full moon

On a cloudless night it's great to see the brightness of a full moon but it can provide too much light to see the night sky. You can check the moon phases calendar on the Royal Museums Greenwich website.

Night Vision

Allow about 15-20 minutes for your eyes to adjust to the darkness. You'll find the naked eye will be able to see so much more.

Red light filter

Once your eyes have acclimatised to the darkness, a torch with a red light filter will help maintain your night vision (you'll find one hanging up in the utility cupboard).

Warm and Comforable

Warm clothing and a blanket (we have 2 blankets for you to take outside) gives extra comfort on cold winter evenings. You'll find folding deck chairs in the wood store, they are easy to move around and they recline saving your neck from strain when looking up.

Binoculars

You'll find a couple of sets in the cabin, they are light weight and easy to carry.

Drink and a snack - these are optional! But recommend for your enjoyment.