Ramsey’s Mooragh Promenade has become one of 26 sites in the Island to be accorded Dark Sky status grade two by the Dark Sky Discovery Network (DSDN).
Grade two classification, the highest category, is granted to ‘Milky Way’ sites, darker sites where the Milky Way is able to be seen by the naked eye under ideal conditions.
Awarded by the UK Science and Technology Facilities Council Dark Sky Discovery sites are places that are away from the worst of any light pollution, provide good sightlines of the sky and have good public access for all levels of mobility.
The Isle of Man currently has the highest concentration of Dark Sky Discovery sites in the British Isles, making it ideal for stargazing.
Ramsey Town Commissioner Dr Alex Allinson, lead member for parks and leisure, said: ‘For the Isle of Man to have achieved Dark Sky status at 26 sites is outstanding and is yet another example of the unique quality of life enjoyed in the Island with its low-density population and few built-up areas. From Ramsey’s perspective, for the Mooragh promenade to have been designated a grade two Dark Sky site will serve as an added attraction for the town. Ramsey has much to offer during daylight hours but this accreditation introduces a new and exciting dimension to the town’s nighttime environment, both from a leisure and educational point of view. We are delighted to be part of the Dark Sky community and look forward to celebrating the Island’s unique status with our 25 partner sites in the Island.’
http://www.visitisleofman.com/placestovisit/DarkSkySites/darkskies.xml
Photo - Ramsey Town Commissioner Dr Alex Allinson, lead member for parks and leisure, and town clerk Peter Whiteway at Ramsey’s Dark Sky Discovery site, Mooragh Promenade. Picture Andrew Barton.
