Star Search Course

We are excited to once again be able to offer both a Spring and Autumn Star Search Course and we cannot wait to show you the stars! 

The courses are presented on one evening per week for four weeks either in the Spring or Autumn and are designed to look at the whole sky with just your eyes!

During the first week you will be taught what a star is; the movements of the stars in the sky; why we see some constellations all through the night and all through the year, while other constellations are only visible at certain times of the year. We will also start to recognise the most prominent constellations so you can use them to navigate your way around the night sky. Week 2 and week 3 will continue to explore the more prominent constellations helping you recognise the patterns throughout the sky. In ancient times many stories were attached to the patterns in the sky and we will explore some of these mythologies as we introduce each constellation. You will also learn how to use a planisphere and look at star maps.

In the final week we will be learning about other objects as well as the stars including the Moon and planets. There will also be a brief introduction to some deeper sky objects nestled within the constellations, that can be spotted through binoculars.  

The course is partly classroom based but it is hoped that, weather permitting, there will be plenty of opportunity to translate what has been learned indoors to the actual night sky on clear evenings. On the last evening you are welcome to bring binoculars if you have them, to spot some of the deeper sky objects discussed during the lecture.

This course is aimed at adults. If you wish to enquire about booking an under 18 (with an accompanying adult) onto the course then please phone The Centre on 01323 832731. We cannot accept under 18s onto the course without an accompanying adult.

Time: 7.30pm - 9.30pm

Course lecturer: Dr Sandra Voss

Cost: £88

Booking essential

You can book online using Paypal and depending on the device you are booking with there should be an option to book online without using Paypal (check out as a guest using your debit or credit card). Please telephone The Centre on 01323 832731 to secure your place(s) if you are unable to book online.

If you are looking for a present then you can purchase a Gift Ticket package for the Star Search courses. Please visit the online shop to make your purchase. 

Please note that the Gift Ticket package includes a notebook and pen and therefore the price is different to the one shown on this page. Please see FAQs for Gift Ticket terms and conditions.

We recommend that you bring a red light torch if you have one and please wear warm clothing and sensible, warm footwear.

The Centre’s shop sells planispheres and will be open at the start of each evening.

There is a break half way through the lecture and hot/cold drinks and snacks can be purchased. 

The course takes place in one of our observatory domes on the first floor which is accessed by 2 flights of stairs.

If using Sat Nav, please use ‘Wartling Road’ and NOT our postcode.
PARKING: There is ample free parking on the grassed car park in front of The Centre. 

By booking this course you agree to abide by our refund/cancellation policy.