Explore the wonders of space, at Firstsite’s Astronomy After Dark for Enthusiasts with the Tiptree Stargazers! The are four zones of activities to enjoy.

There are two entry timeslots for our Astronomy After Dark for Enthusiasts event. 

Please ensure you arrive for the time you have booked. Zonal activities will begin at 6:30pm.

Age suitability: 16+

For our family session please click here. 

Activities to Discover

Photographing the Night Sky (by Nik Szymanek):

An introductory talk showing how the modern astrophotographer can take amazing pictures of galaxies, nebulae, star clusters, comets, the Northern Lights etc. 

The talk will explain how to start out, using a digital camera to photograph the stars and constellations before moving on to the need for a tracking platform (necessary to cancel out the rotation of the Earth). 

The final section of the talk will showcase how the modern amateur astrophotographer can now use equipment located abroad to take pictures of the very highest standard. This talk is non-technical and suitable for all.  

Twinkle Tiwnkle Little Star, We know where you are:

This is a presentation from Mike Barrett, that explains how to recognise the wonders of the night sky and how to see them both naked eye and through a telescope.

We will explore the mechanics of the night skies and look at some of the fascinating objects up in the firmanents.

Mike Barrett has also been involved in astronomy for 16 years reporting on Rockets and space, presenting and delivering talks and outreach events for all age groups.

Mike is a member of Dedham vale Society of the Dark Skies campaign which aims to conserve our Dark Skies for Future Generations. 

Telescopes:

We will be looking at the telescopes learning more about what they do and how they work. And if the weather is on our side, we may get to see the moon as it comes up.

As the skies darken there may be an opportunity to see more of the night sky.

In the event of adverse weather, we will go inside where there will be a chance to look and hold some meteorites, and still look and learn about the telescopes.

Planetarium Dome:

StarDome Star Voyager 1

A fully immersive UHD and 4K resolution in a 6m Diameter dome, with fully immersive images. In the StarDome we can cover a variety of star – folklore and legends from around the world.

About Tiptree Stargazers

Tiptree Stargazers are a friendly group of astronomers with the passion to share the wonders of the universe with others.

Free to join and follow-on social media with the chance to get involved and attend events.

We have our own STEM ambassadors, public speakers and outreach equipment for schools, clubs and groups.