Moved to Dorchester, UK

[BargeGazer]

I have just moved into the Dorchester area.

Can anyone tell me where the best, and safest, spots are for observing?

Are there any groups / observatories in the area.

Many thanks,

David

[Dave Lloyd]

Hi David, welcome. 

[laudropb]

Hello and a warm welcome to the SGL.

[sloz1664]

Hi David and a very warm welcome to the Lounge

Steve

[Barry Fitz-Gerald]

Dorchester in Dorset? If so send me a PM - I am also in Dorchester!

[Gfamily]

For 'where to stargaze' queries, it's worth checking https://gostargazing.co.uk which shows locations and events.

However, with clubs not meeting at the moment, not all clubs are showing up even if they are currently hosting virtual events.

An alternative site for county by county lists is here, showing two clubs in Dorset, at Wimbourne and Weymouth (may not be up to date)

http://www.astronomyclubs.co.uk/Clubs/Default.aspx?CountyId=28

Edited August 9, 2020 by Gfamily

[AdeKing]

Welcome to Dorset, there are a few of us Dorset residents here on SGL.

Regarding clubs, there are groups at Weymouth (http://www.weymouthastronomy.co.uk), Wimborne (http://www.wessex-astro.org.uk/) and Crewkerne (http://www.cadas.net/monthly-meetings/).

I know that Wessex and Weymouth are running monthly Zoom meetings at the moment but looking at the Crewkerne website it just states that meetings have been suspended due to Covid 19.

Wessex Astro have an observatory at Durlston Country Park at Swanage, but monthly meetings are suspended due to Covid at the moment.

I can't help with decent observing sites local to Dorchester I'm afraid as I'm further east in Bournemouth, but once you get onto the coast and away from the towns the skies are beautifully dark, likewise to the north of Dorchester as it's pretty sparsely populated.  You've chosen a great area for your move.

I'm sure someone else will be along in due course.

Ade

Edited August 9, 2020 by AdeKing
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