Isle of Wight Observatory open night
Thursday every week from October 2026 to March 2027
The Isle of Wight Observatory
Watery Lane, Newchurch, Isle of Wight, PO36 0LX
The Isle of Wight Observatory at Newchurch is open to small groups of visitors every Thursday evening from 20.00, with events run by the friendly and welcoming astronomers from the Vectis Astronomical Society.
No prior booking is required, however, if your group is more than 6 people, please contact the Observatory Director prior to your visit.
Note that during the Summer months, from the beginning of April to the end of September, the observatory may close at 21:30 due to lack of darkness. If you arrive after this time, there may not be anyone present to greet you!
If you’re a local or even visiting the Isle of Wight on holiday, why not join them for an evening of stargazing?
Event organiser
Vectis Astronomical Society organises these events
Please contact Vectis Astronomical Society directly for more details regarding their events.
Email: [email protected]
Website: Vectis Astronomical Society
Facebook: Vectis Astronomical Society
Local light pollution
The Isle of Wight Observatory is estimated to have light pollution levels similar to a suburban location based on the latest data from the VIIRS satellite. For more advanced light pollution data, view this location on DarkSkySites.
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Urban
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Suburban
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Semi-rural
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Rural
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Dark site
The above demonstrates the estimated effect of light pollution - graphics created using Stellarium.
Forthcoming events
Below is a list of Isle of Wight Observatory open night events at The Isle of Wight Observatory. You can view events at this location on a calendar.
Stay and gaze nearby
Stay at one of these stargazing-friendly accommodation providers.