Lunar Occultation of the Pleiades

Lunar Occultation of the Pleiades

By Tomintoul & Glenlivet Cairngorms Dark Sky Park

Join us to learn all about the seven sisters star cluster

Date and time

Location

Tomintoul & Glenlivet Discovery Centre

43 The Square Tomintoul AB37 9ET United Kingdom

Good to know

Highlights

  • 1 hour, 45 minutes
  • ALL AGES
  • In person
  • Free venue parking
  • Doors at 21:15

Refund Policy

Refunds up to 7 days before event

About this event

Hobbies • Other

Join the Cairngorms Astronomy Group and Tomintoul & Glenlivet Development Trust for a spectacular night under the stars as we witness a lunar occultation of the Pleiades—also known as the Seven Sisters, one of the most famous star clusters in the night sky. You’ll also learn about the Pleiades themselves and what makes star clusters such fascinating cosmic communities.

During this event, the Moon will pass directly in front of the Pleiades, briefly hiding some of its brilliant stars from view.

What you’ll see: Assuming clear skies, and with the help of binoculars or a telescope, you’ll watch as individual Pleiades stars disappear behind the Moon’s bright edge, only to reappear shortly after. It’s a slow, graceful, hour-long dance of light and shadow.

We’ll meet at the Discovery Centre before walking down to a nearby Dark Sky Discovery site to enjoy this celestial spectacle.

In the event of inclement weather attendees will be emailed with updates on the day.

Meeting point: Discovery Centre, Tomintoul at 9:30 pm

Suggested donation through Eventbrite or £6 in cash on the night helps to support the Tomintoul & Glenlivet Cairngorms Dark Sky Park.

Frequently asked questions

What if the weather is cloudy or wet?

Always a possibility in Scotland! We will aim to go for a night walk even if the conditions are partly cloudy as some of our best stargazing sessions have been when the clouds have cleared. If it is raining or stormy, we will email attendees prior to the event and tickets will be refunded.

Can I bring my dog stargazing?

Yes, well behaved dogs on leads are welcome. Note that sometimes small dogs will get cold during sessions if we're not moving around very much.

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