NEWS:
Allenheads Observatory at ACA.
Education
At ACA, we have a lengthy history of facilitating and leading research projects and educational residencies. We work both on-site in Allenheads and remotely, collaborating with international arts organisations.
We have experience with pupils and students of all ages and abilities – from local primary schools and a regional Pupil Referral Unit to university students studying for their BA, MFA and PhD. We have also run programmes for recent graduates and early career artists as well as those seeking to continue their professional development.
Our knowledge of the local area and experience in running a rural arts organisation means that ACA has a unique take on the intersection of art, nature and science. We provide a relaxed yet stimulating environment for education and actively encourage participants to interact with the natural environment of the North Pennines and its fascinating history. Whether it be through our on-site observatory, out on the fell, or in the labyrinth of disused lead mining tunnels under our feet, our approach removes students from their busy lives and allows them to reconnect with their surroundings.
Our level of involvement is tailored to the needs of the specific group and we work with organisations on an individual basis to develop a programme that suits them. We can design a bespoke course for you or simply help facilitate your own programme.
We will work with you to make your experience here as engaging and memorable as possible, whether you visit for a day or a week.
We welcome inquiries to discuss your ideas for an educational visit.
Step beneath one of the darkest night skies in England and witness the Milky Way in all its glory.
From Allenheads Observatory at ACA, at the darkest mainland AONB, a stargazer’s paradise where the universe truly comes alive. This is our signature stargazing experience, often selling out well in advance thanks to its breathtaking views and immersive activities.
We will guide you through the cosmos with telescopes, binoculars, and naked-eye tours, helping you spot constellations, planets, star clusters, and deep-sky wonders you never knew existed.
Take part in hands-on astronomy activities. Sip hot drinks, enjoy snacks, and warm up in our cosy indoor space between observing sessions.
Highlights include: A memorable path to the furthest object you can see with the naked eye Milky Way viewing from one of the UK’s premier dark-sky locations.
Guided telescope tours from experienced astronomers
Digital stargazing activities if cloud cover appears
A family-friendly, adventurous venue you’ll talk about for years
More taster sessions coming.
The Allenheads Observatory at ACA https://www.acart.org.uk/observatory-allenheads invite our ‘Astro Curious’ neighbours to come along and check out our observatory at the Old Schoolhouse, Allenheads.
The taster sessions at the observatory have provided a lovely informal introduction to ACA's observatory introducing people to the fantastically clear sky above Allenheads, observing Venus, Jupiter, Mars, the Pleiades, Orion, scintillating Sirius and the Milky Way. Followed by hot chocolate and interesting conversation in the warm room.
If you would like to attend please message me with your preferred dates, and be prepared for a short notice reply from me to say that the conditions are good, or not. Might be an idea to include your phone number so that I can be sure to make contact. If you would like to come along contact Alan Smith via FB message or email alanshead@acart.org.uk
This is an open invite to introduce you to our facilities and discuss how you might get involved in the future in all things ‘dark skies’. Introductions will be run as a series of informal, social evenings for small groups of 10 max, with refreshments.
The idea is to create a local interest group for those living close enough to respond at relatively short notice, to come to the observatory to enjoy our beautiful dark skies.
Please pass this on to any of your friends or family who don't use social media. Suitable for adults and families.
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Come visit, stay, explore and
discover the sky from our
ACA observatory
