Reach for the stars at Heaton Park
18 January 2011
Heaton Park has been inundated with 'phone calls from Manchester residents keen to spend a night with the stars.
Since the recent partial eclipse and a meteor shower, Heaton Park staff have received dozens of enquiries about the park's Astronomy Club.
The Heaton Park Astronomy Club was established seven years ago and has grown significantly over the years. The club is hosting a free event this Thursday ( January 20) as part of the BBC's stargazing events taking place across the country.
Manchester City Council's Executive Member for Culture and Leisure, Councillor Mike Amesbury said: "This shows what a wide range of activities and interests are catered for in Manchester parks. There's also an astronomy club in Wytheshawe Park so there's something for star gazers across the city."
The "Stargazing for beginners with the Heaton Park Astronomy Club" event will take place at the Heaton Park Bowls pavilion from 7-9pm. The event is free. All newcomers are welcome but under 16s must be accompanied by an adult. If you have your own telescope you may like to bring it along.
The Astronomy group meets every Thursday evening throughout the winter, and is free to attend. A local astronomer, with park wardens, hosts the meetings for beginners and amateur astronomers who discuss a variety of topics ranging from how stars are made to viewing the night sky and planets. Currently the group is viewing the planet of Jupiter.
For further information about the Astronomy Club please contact Heaton Park on 0161 773 1085.
