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An atmosphere is a layer
of different gases that
surrounds a planet and
is held down by gravity.
The Earth's atmosphere
is mainly composed of
Nitrogen and Oxygen, and
provides the air that we
breathe and the wind that
blows in our face.
An Atmosphere
There are many remote locations around the British Isles that allow us to see the night sky in its full glory, especially in the Highlands and Islands of Scotland. However, the top ten star-gazing locations, as suggested by the Guardian Newspaper, are as follows:
England's largest forest, and home to the biggest man-made lake in northern Europe. Stargazers should visit the Kielder Observatory.
The darkest area in mainland Britain, and Europe's first "dark sky park". Up to 7,000 stars are visible at night.
An area of outstanding natural beauty near the north Norfolk steam railway. Hosts an annual "star party" in early spring.
An ideal place for watching stars, given the stones' relationship to the skies. Local groups host an evening of stargazing and storytelling in April.
Five miles from Much Wenlock. The Veil Nebula has been spotted from here.
Located in the middle of Exmoor, yet still accessible by car, Winsford Hill is even less affected by light pollution than other nearby stargazing spots.
A bronze age hill fort in the Peak District, Mam Tor is far enough away from Sheffield to be largely free from light pollution.
The highest point on the South Downs: you'll see stars and maybe a few Pipistrelle bats.
Home of the Spaceguard observatory.
Good for spotting both stars and Bottlenose dolphins.
