Astronomy Evening at RSPB Old Moor
Friday 18th September 2026 from 20:45pm to 22:30pm
RSPB Dearne Valley - Old Moor
Broomhill, Barnsley, South Yorkshire, S73 0YF
RSPB Old Moor and Mexborough & Swinton Astronomical Society (MSAS) invite you to an evening exploring both the night sky and the wildlife that comes alive after dark.
As darkness falls, MSAS astronomers will be on hand with powerful telescopes to guide you around the night sky, offering views of celestial objects visible on the evening. Inside the café, you can also explore astronomical displays and computer-based night sky atlases, making this a great event whatever your level of experience.
There will also be a unique opportunity to discover RSPB Old Moor after dark. From the lookout hide overlooking the mere, use night-vision binoculars and thermal imaging cameras to search for nocturnal mammals and birds.
The event runs from 20:45 until 22:30, and you are welcome to arrive at a time that suits you. Hot drinks and snacks will be available from the café between 20:45 and 21:45.
Please wrap up warm and wear suitable footwear for exploring the reserve after dark.
Event organiser
RSPB is organising this event
Please contact RSPB directly for more details regarding this event or, if appropriate, contact the event venue.
Email: [email protected]
Website: RSPB
Facebook: RSPB
Event booking
For full details on how to attend this event, including how to book, please see the event's official website.
Visit event websiteEvent darkness
The below chart shows if and when the skies will be at their darkest during this event. Moonlight is shown in light yellow and the Sun's twilight in light blue. Midnight on the date shown is shown as a white line with sunset to the left and sunrise the next morning to the right. A black background with stars shows the best times for stargazing.
Fri 18th Sep
Local light pollution
RSPB Dearne Valley - Old Moor is estimated to have light pollution levels similar to an urban location based on the latest data from the VIIRS satellite. For more advanced light pollution data, view this location on DarkSkySites.
-
Urban
-
Suburban
-
Semi-rural
-
Rural
-
Dark site
The above demonstrates the estimated effect of light pollution - graphics created using Stellarium.
Forthcoming events
Below is a list of events at RSPB Dearne Valley - Old Moor. View these events on our calendar, add them to your calendar or Google Calendar.