If you’re a fan of stargazing and interested in exploring the night sky, OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory in Omagh is the perfect place for you. Located in the heart of Northern Ireland, OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory offers a stargazing experience and stone circles you won’t find anywhere else. In this article, you can look closer at this fantastic destination and what makes it unique.
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What is OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory
Located in the town of Omagh, Northern Ireland, the OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory is the 78th Dark Sky Park on the planet and a unique destination for experiencing a sky free from light pollution. It provides an excellent opportunity to witness stars shining brightly. Here, also the Milky Way appearing clear.
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OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory is located in a hollow in the forest that blocks light, allowing an even better view of the starry sky. The Park covers an area of 80 hectares and boasts one of the darkest skies in Ireland. It connects with the natural landscape of Davagh and the forest, hosting several stargazing facilities, such as an observatory, a planetarium, and various outdoor viewing areas.
While stargazing is the primary activity at the park, the main focus lies in conservation efforts. The park’s dark night skies are crucial in supporting local wildlife. Many animals rely on the natural cycle of light and darkness to navigate their environment, and the absence of artificial light helps them maintain their natural behaviors.
What You Can See at OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory
OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory is located in one of Ireland’s most secluded and darkest areas. It is one of two International Dark Sky Parks on the island of Ireland and the sixth in the UK. That makes it an ideal place for stargazing. The observatory complex also boasts an exhibition that offers a wealth of knowledge about the universe and its wonders.
At the exhibition, you can delve into the sky’s secrets through interactive touch screens, explore the cosmos, and learn about the celestial objects that light up the night sky. The exhibit also teaches you how to use binoculars and telescopes, allowing you to experience the thrill of observing the universe firsthand.
Beaghmore Stone Circles
Inside the Park, you can also explore the ancient Beaghmore Stone Circles, a cluster of mysterious stones dating back six millennia. Over 4,000 years ago, the Bronze Age people who lived in the Sperrin mountains created 7 stone circles, 10 radiating rows, and 12 cairns.
The purpose of these structures remains a mystery. It could have been used for ancient rituals or as an observatory to look at lunar, solar, and stellar events. Regardless of what it might have been, inside the stone circle, you can breathe a unique calm and feel truly connected to the power of nature. It is a truly unique experience that I recommend you try.
Celestial Objects You Can Observe at OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory
The OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory has minimum light pollution, allowing for a breathtakingly clear view of the night sky and an opportunity to spot numerous stars and constellations.
The observatory houses advanced technology that enables you to observe the night sky in remarkable detail with a 14-inch LX600 Meade telescope, and a solar telescope for observing flares and the Sun’s surface during the summer months.
Astronomers use these telescopes to conduct various observations, including planetary, deep-sky, and solar observations. You, too, can observe an array of celestial objects, including stars, planets, galaxies, and nebulae. The highlights are:
Moon Gazing
While some of the Moon’s features can be seen without any optical aid, use binoculars or a telescope for the best viewing experience. The Moon’s surface mainly consists of craters, mountain ranges, and plains.
The dark patches on the Moon’s surface are basalt plains, which resemble the rock structures of the Giant’s Causeway on Earth. These plains result from hardened pools of lava ejected from the Moon’s molten core due to the impact of giant asteroids, which occurred a long time ago.
Planets
At the OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory, you can use telescopes to observe various planets. Our solar system has eight planets: Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune. Depending on the season, you might also catch a glimpse of Uranus and Neptune. Besides these planets, there is a group of smaller worlds beyond Neptune called dwarf planets, including Pluto.
Meteor Showers
OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory is the perfect place to observe meteor showers. Throughout the year, the park hosts various meteor shower events. Some examples are the Perseid meteor shower in August and the Geminid meteor shower in December.
Meteor showers are caused by comets passing through the Solar system, leaving behind debris that produces stunning displays of meteors. Although the dates of these showers are predictable, the activity level can sometimes exceed the norm, resulting in a more spectacular viewing experience.
Deep-Sky Objects: Galaxies, Nebulae, and Star Clusters
At the OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory, you can see numerous deep-sky objects like galaxies, nebulae, and star clusters through telescopes. Witnessing the deep-skt objects’ incredible details and clarity is truly a remarkable experience. When you first gaze through the telescope on a clear night, you’ll be amazed at the countless stars visible even in seemingly empty sky areas.
Galaxies
A galaxy is an enormous assemblage of gas, dust, billions of stars, and their planetary systems, all held together by gravity. Our galaxy is the Milky Way, and the OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory are among Ireland’s best places to see. Here, in the vast expanse of the night sky, you can observe a breathtaking band of light consisting of billions of glittering stars.
The Andromeda Galaxy, one of the closest large galaxies to the Milky Way, is among the rare few that can be observed without visual aids. It is estimated to harbour about 400 billion stars and is approximately 2.6 million light years away from us. The best time to view the Andromeda Galaxy is between September and February.
Nebula
A nebula is a vast accumulation of dust and gas in outer space. The Orion Nebula, also called Messier 42 or M42, is a prominent nebula that should be on the list of must-see objects for anyone interested in astronomy. It is one of the most luminous nebulae and can be perceived with the naked eye in the night sky. The best time to observe the Orion Nebula is during winter, typically from October to February.
Star Clusters
Star clusters are a collection of stars situated near each other in space and held together by gravitational force. One star cluster easily identifiable through the telescope is the Pleiades, which you can best observe between October and February.
Northern Lights
In a remote area with minimal light pollution, like the OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory, you might witness one of the most awe-inspiring sights on Earth: the Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis.
The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon that occurs when charged particles from the Sun interact with the Earth’s magnetic field. They are a stunning display of natural beauty that’s worth bundling up and venturing out into the cold to witness firsthand.
The OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory Experiences
At the OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory, you’ll have the opportunity to engage in various captivating experiences that provide a deep understanding of the Park’s significance, from stargazing to interactive exhibits.
I visited the park in the afternoon, so I did not get to see the stars. Still, I had a guided tour of the exhibition, where I discovered how and when the Aurora Borealis and Aurora Australis are visible along their impressive cycle of solar flares in relation to the magnetic field (an impressive 11-year maximum and 11-year minimum cycle).
In addition, the guide explained how the large Wedge telescope works. Its peculiarity is focusing and following objects to avoid blurry images as celestial objects move quickly. I also discovered that Andromeda is the nearest galaxy and that there are apps such as Stellarium to view constellations.
For me, it was an educational and very interesting experience before going to see Beaghmore Stone Circles, which is just a short distance away.
The Planetarium
A planetarium within the park offers a unique stargazing experience. It employs a 360-degree projector that projects an authentic and immersive simulation of the night sky. While you observe the stars and constellations, a guide explains the various celestial objects you are observing.
Dark Sky Experience
To get the most from your visit, I recommend joining to a guided tours. In that way you can learn everything about stars, planets and constellations.
Between October and February, an exciting event called the OM Odyssey Outdoor Film takes place every year. During this event, a film is projected outside of the observatory building. It will take you on a journey through time and space.
You can also spend a night under the stars with a tour on request and learn about the ancient Beaghmore Stone Circles while gazing at the constellations through the OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory’s telescope.
Landscape Experience
The outdoor tour of the area takes you through the valley of the Broughderg River. The Sperrin Mountains, particularly Davagh Forest, are home to a rich archaeological heritage of megalithic monuments. There, you can see many standing stones, stone circles, and burial tombs.
At Beaghmore, seven mystical stone circles, ten rows of stones, and twelve cairns are nestled amongst the moorland. Tools found in the area have been carbon-dated to 2900-2600 BC, and some stones have markings resembling ancient Celtic writing.
Still, the purpose of the Beaghmore Stone Circles remains a mystery. It could record the sun’s and moon’s movements to identify certain lunar, solar, or stellar events. Or just being a burial site.
However, three stone rows point to the solstice sunrise, while another appears to be aligned towards a lunar maximum. As you explore the area, it’s clear that the people who built these monuments observed the same sky, sun, moon, and stars we see today.
Practical Info to Visit OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory
OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory is a great destination to explore the wonders of the night sky. The park offers a range of stargazing experiences, including guided tours and educational activities. You can stay up-to-date with the latest information by visiting the official website.
To make the most of your stargazing experience, remember to dress in layers and keep yourself warm. Don’t forget to bring a hat that covers your ears and gloves.
While you don’t need any special equipment for stargazing, having binoculars or telescopes will enhance your experience. Additionally, a red torch is a handy accessory to carry with you during nighttime events. It won’t affect your night vision.
How OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory tickets cost
To ensure your visit, the official website recommends to pre-book tickets. You can do so by calling the OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory. Tickets cost £5.00 for adults, and reduced rates are available for children and those over 60.
OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory Opening Time
The OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory is open to visitors every day of the week. On Sundays through Thursdays, the park opens from 11am to 7pm. On Fridays and Saturdays, it is open from 11am to 9pm. It operates throughout the year, but the opening hours may change during public holidays.
In case of harsh weather conditions, the park management may reschedule their planned events or restrict access to Davagh Forest. To stay updated, you can check out Mid Ulster District Council’s Weather Wise page.
How to get to OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory
The OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory is situated in the town of Omagh in Northern Ireland. It can be easily reached by car. It is located around 50 miles from Belfast and 15 miles from Cookstown. The Park is signposted off the main road connecting the two towns.
You can park here for free for up to one hour. A charge of 40 pence per hour is applicable afterwards. However, visitors to the OM exhibition are eligible for free parking by presenting their tickets at the OM reception.
OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory
155 Davagh Road
Omagh BT79 8JQ
OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory is an incredible destination for anyone interested in stargazing and exploring the night sky. The park offers a unique and immersive experience in some of the darkest skies in Ireland. I’ll be happy to read your thoughts about OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory in the comments, whether you’re a seasoned astronomer or just starting out.