Star & Planet Spotting from Farr Community Hall with Strathnairn Stargazing Group | 17 May 2026
Third time lucky for Star & Planet Spotting from Strathnairn; or put another way, it pays to be persistent but patient.
On the last of 3 consecutive nights identified over the weekend 15-17 May 2026, finally the turbulent weather conditions settled. With this the clouds parted, leaving Inverarnie with near perfect conditions for the planned Weekend Star & Planet Spotting Session. After first observing a late setting sun and darkness creeping in (from the indoor shelter of Farr Hall’s Clachan Room) this in turn revealed an expansive ‘summer’ dark sky (from the community’s outdoor Pitches) with just a slip of a new moon – a waxing crescent of 1% – near the horizon.
As luck was with us fortunately the mist which rolled up from the River Nairn, made only the briefest of appearances – hovering just above the ground – and then retreated from whence it came.
Through the Session – expertly-led by Dr Andy McGregor, Chair of Strathnairn Stargazing Group, local to the community and resident astrophysicist/astronomer – we were gently introduced to what lay overhead in the night sky. With eyes adjusted to the darkness, after first determining the position of Jupiter and Venus, constellations associated with the summer months of the Zodiac – from Taurus to Libra – revealed themselves, including the twin stars of Gemini (Castor & Pollux) which shone especially brightly overhead.
Guiding us on distinguishing features through relative positioning from The Plough outwards, highlighting colours or shape, and bringing meaning or perception to the depth or distance, Andy’s experience brought the overhead map alive; from Polaris to Mizar to Cassiopeia. Meanwhile discussions ranged from deep space, to science, to heritage & culture, to well-being and overnight adventures; with rich contributions made by all and local knowledge revealed.
Finally, the night was topped off with a view of two moons of Jupiter – relative to the planet – seen through the telescope, before heading off to our individual homes whilst many in the local community were doubtless fast asleep.
We know that several people who booked for Friday or Saturday, couldn’t make Sunday night in the end. But thanks to those – the lucky few – who persevered and came along to join us.
Put 12 August 2026 into your diary now; and we’ll see you all for another community-led session to watch the Perseid meteor shower together.
Summer stargazing treat as Perseid meteor shower reaches its peak | The Royal Astronomical Society
This event has been made possible thanks to an active community-based volunteer team, through support from the Strathnairn Community Benefit Fund (SCBF), and with access to Farr Community Hall – With thanks to all.
For more details on Strathnairn Stargazing Group & related community activities see Facebook