Explore the Darker Skies of Mann with Howard Parkin

Manx National Heritage will host a fascinating evening lecture on the ‘The Darker Skies of Mann’ with renowned astronomer Howard Parkin at the Manx Museum on Friday 13 December 2024. 

The Isle of Man is known as one of the best places to stargaze in the British Isles, with a total of twenty-six designated “Dark Sky Discovery Sites” on the island, awarded by the UK Science and Technology Facilities Council. These include some of the Island’s best beauty and heritage sites including Cregneash, Rushen Abbey, Peel and Niarbyl Bay. 

In this fascinating evening lecture, Howard will explore one of the greatest threats to this prestigious status: the impact of light pollution on the Isle of Man’s dark skies. 

Howard Parkin said:

“Out of all the various pollutions humans create, light pollution is one of the most prevalent forms of pollution facing our island and its prestigious Dark Skies Discovery status. 

This relatively silent form of pollution impacts our wildlife, eco systems, health, wellbeing, energy use, climate and our island’s incredible dark skies.  As an island nation, we need to do all we can to protect it”.

An international expert on astronomy and Dark Skies, Howard Parkin lectures around the globe.  In this evening lecture, he will present the case for increased protection of the Isle of Man’s and the World’s dark skies.  He will explore the importance of darkness, the effects the lack of darkness has on the environment and what we can all do to protect the night sky.

Howard will be on hand to sign copies of his book, ‘Space for Dark Skies’, priced £20 each or pre-order at a discounted price when purchasing a ticket.  Tickets for the lecture cost £15, or £30 when purchased in a ticket and book combination.

The lecture takes place in the Manx Museum Lecture Theatre on 13 December 2024.  Doors open at 5.30pm for a 6pm start.  Tickets are available from https://manxnationalheritage.im/whats-on/.

Howard Parkin explores the ‘Darker Skies of Mann’