WORKSHOP CONTENT & LEARNING OUTCOMES

The Assynt–Coigach area of the Northwest Highlands is recognised for having some of the darkest skies in Europe. On this regional workshop we will explore the night sky from our observatory near Stoer, situated within the North West Highlands GeoPark.

The workshop aims to help you develop your personal knowledge of the stars and planets and to give you confidence to talk about dark skies, light pollution, and their environmental importance. There will be a mix of indoor and outdoor sessions, combining demos and discussion with hands on experience including:

• Planetary astronomy using our visual telescope.

• Deep space astronomy using our dedicated astrophotography scope in the observatory.

• Navigating by the stars (clear skies permitting!)

In addition to exploring how the stars have guided travellers across land and sea, we will consider:

• How to recognise key constellations and celestial features visible to the naked eye.

• The significance of dark skies for local ecology and biodiversity.

• The cultural and historical connections between people and the stars.

• How we are working with local communities toward an official dark sky designation to protect our skies for the future.

This workshop provides a unique opportunity to engage with the mountains and landscape after dark, deepening your understanding of both the natural environment and our place within it.

EQUIPMENT/KIT REQUIRED

Plenty of warm clothing and layers as much of the time will be spent outdoors standing still. 

Head torch, ideally one with a red light function. 

CATERING/FOOD

As the workshop will take place during most of our dinner times, plenty of savoury snacks and cake will be provided, as well as hot drinks. Feel free to bring your own snacks or something to share. 

WORKSHOP PROVIDER CREDENTIALS

This workshop is facilitated by Stoer Observatory hosts Monica Shaw and Mark Washer. Monica is a qualified Mountain Leader and Northwest Scotlands regional volunteer. She has a background in STEM and specialises in linking environmental awareness with practical mountain leadership skills. Mark is a Fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society (RAS) and with decades experience as a sailing instructor, brings a unique perspective on celestial navigation and planetary astronomy. 

CANCELLATION PROCEDURE

Should for any reason you be unable to attend, or are delayed on the day, please contact Monica asap (07858046739 or monica@eatsleepwild.com).  Your place can then be offered to others.  

WHAT HAPPENS AFTER THE EVENT

Your CPD record - If you attend this event and it counts as CPD, your CPD point/s will automatically be added to your record in due course - you will not need to add it yourself.

Please allow up to 2 weeks for the workshop provider to complete the event in the system and assign you your CPD, thank you.

Start

06/12/2025 18:00

End

06/12/2025 21:00

Total Days

0.5

Maximum Bookings

10

Bookings

1

Venue

Stoer Observatory / Old School Byre

Town

Lairg

County

Highland Council

Postcode

IV27 4JG

Country

United Kingdom

Location

58.23198,-5.33557

Name

Mountain Training Association

Phone

07858046739

Website

Email