The Dark Skies Station is a purpose-built facility in the North York Moors National Park, a leading destination for dark skies, science education and environmental stewardship.
A permanent astronomical observatory for astronomy and space science learning is now open at Danby Lodge National Park Centre in North Yorkshire.
The new purpose-built facility, known as the Dark Skies Station, has opened as part of the 2026 Dark Skies Festival at the North York Moors National Park. The park is recognised for the quality of its starlit skies and work to reduce light pollution for the benefit of wildlife, people and landscape.
Learning opportunities
The Dark Skies Station will support a year-round programme of observing sessions and science learning opportunities.
At the heart of the station is a state-of-the-art telescope inside a retractable-roof observatory, designed for observation and astrophotography. The telescope is adjustable so it can be used comfortably by children and the accessible building includes a room for up to 30 people to take part in talks, presentations and hands-on learning activities.
An interactive Discover the Universe exhibition introduces key concepts of astronomy through interactive audio-visual elements. The surrounding outdoor area provides apace for group observation and guided sessions beneath the open sky.
John McCue, founder member of the Cleveland and Darlington Astronomical Society, associate lecturer with the Open University and member of the North York Moors National Park Authority said: “This observatory represents a significant step forward in how people can experience and understand the night sky above the North York Moors.”
“It allows us to offer high-quality, inclusive observing experiences in a place where darkness is still something truly special, opening up views of planets, star clusters and distant galaxies to people of all ages and abilities.”
For more information about the Dark Skies Station, visit www.northyorkmoors.org.uk.
