Finding dark spots

[Miranda]

Hi all,

For those of you who have to travel to find a good dark spot somewhere (and not in the backgarden) I was wondering how you came to find your little spot? Do you just drive until you find somewhere that looks dark and safe to stop and set stuff up? Or do you get a spot recommended to you by people in your AS?

I used to just know lots of great places when I lived in Shropshire, but here in Herefordshire its all strange round ere! I guess I just need to do some exploring

[faulksy]

I would of thought you would be close to some dark sites. I used google sky maps and cross referenced it with needless light pollution hope this helps

[scarp15]

I think that I would place a lot of value on establishing suitable locations, on local knowledge gleaned from your regional Astro Society or group, as well as for example sections from this forum. However there is no harm in poring over a few maps and exploring a bit to.

[stevetynant]

and don't forget google maps/ street view is your friend before you get going out on your own

[Miranda]

oh found a great light pollution map .... hmmm now to explore!

[swamp thing]

oh found a great light pollution map .... hmmm now to explore!

Quality idea. I browse maps looking for spots furthest away from towns, before starting a more local inspection. Best to have an observing buddy or two to meet up with though.

Good hunting

[Principal-Kohoutec]

Luckily for me I live in a dark spot. There is a row of houses that blot out the street lights where the cars are parked. The only drawback is that I only see the eastern and southern sky. Sometimes I go to the local common. No street lights and very few trees to obstruct the view. Pretty bland landscape but ideal for astronomy.