On October 23rd, Isle of Man Post Office hosted an evening at the Isle of Man Astronomical Observatoryto celebrate the launch of its Dark Sky Discovery stamp issue. Around forty people were in attendance at the event including members of the Astronomical Society and the experts, photographers and designers involved with helping to orchestrate the issue.
 
The Foxdale Observatory is at the centre of the Island’s Dark Sky Discovery programme and is an excellent location for astronomical observation with good dark skies, an elevation of 195 metres above sea level and state of the art equipment. 
 
The evening kicked off with a welcome from Manx Astronomical Society Chairman, Dave Storey, followed by a further welcome from Isle of Man Post Office Chief Executive Mike Kelly with thanks to those concerned with the stamp issue.
 
Mike Kelly, Chief Executive Officer of Isle of Man Post Office said: “I would like to thank the Department of Economic Development who have worked with us on the stamp issue and given it their total backing.  We have been delighted to support the local Isle of Man Dark Sky Discovery initiative with our stamp issue.”
 
The Island is at the centre of what is becoming one of Europe's most celebrated Dark Sky Discovery sites with a total of 26 Dark Sky sites. 19 were recognised earlier this year in addition to the seven that were granted Dark Sky Discovery Network status in 2012.
 
Mr Kelly went on to say: “Designing stamp issues is complex and one which usually involves collaboration with a number of experts in the subject matter.  We are extremely grateful to have been able to draw on Howard Parkin’s incredible knowledge of the subject and to the fantastic photographs used on the stamps provided by two very talented local photographers, Ron Strathdee and Glenn Whorrall.”
 
Following his speech, Mike Kelly then presented framed sets of stamps to those that have been instrumental in the Dark Sky Discovery stamp issue. Dave Storey received a framed set on behalf of the Astronomical Society following its support in hosting the event, and photographer Ron Strathdee for his images of Port Erin, Fort Island and Langness. Finally, photographer Glenn Whorrall was also awarded a set of framed stamps in absentia for his picture of Niarbyl.
 
After an introduction from Howard Parkin, the guests were then split into two groups, one group was led on a tour of the Observatory and telescope by Chairman of Astronomical Society whilst the other group received a Dark Sky Discovery presentation by Howard Parkin on the Isle of Man and then vice versa.
 
As the night drew to a close special Dark Sky Discovery covers were issued to each of the guests postmarked for the event and they were then wished a fond farewell.
 
Photo - Mike Kelly, Post Office Chief Executive Officer and Ron Strathdee, photographer.