Everyone can be a stargazer. Whether you’re an out-an-out novice, or an experienced astronomer, there are seemingly as many tools to help you learn more about the universe as there are stars in the sky.
You don’t even need special equipment to appreciate the wonders of the night sky (though it may help). The BBC has some wonderful resources to help you if you’re just starting out — from downloadable star charts, to instructions on making your own telescope. Why not have a go and let us know what you saw when you visited us?
For those coming with smart phones, there are also some great apps around to help you spot which constellations and planets are visible in the night sky — and where to spot them.
Android users should download Google Sky Map, whilst those with iPhones should find Star Walk useful. You don’t even need to leave the warmth of your Yabin if you don’t want to: by calculating your position on earth, these apps can let you explore the sky from indoors. Don’t forget to charge your phone before you leave though, as we have no electricity on site!