Hundreds gather for 'star party'

In Norfolk, England, a large gathering of amateur astronomers took place for what is believed to be the UK's largest 'star party. ' This exciting event has been organized by the Loughton Astronomical Society for 30 years, and for the past two decades, it has been hosted at Kelling Heath Holiday Park in Holt. Hundreds of stargazers filled three fields, eager to capture images and observe various celestial objects in the dark sky. Alan Marriott, the event coordinator, described the gathering as a 'shared experience' where participants can learn from one another. He noted, 'When it started way back when it was an extended weekend, as it grew over the years it's become a full week. ' The attendance can vary, with numbers ranging from 300 to 400 people, but during peak times, it can reach up to 1,000 attendees, making it a vibrant and lively event. The star party originated 30 years ago in Thetford but quickly outgrew that location. Amateur astronomers of all skill levels and interests come to Norfolk, with some focusing on capturing stunning images of the night sky while others, like Mr. Marriott, prefer to observe visually. He remarked, 'Years ago, observatories couldn't get the kind of pictures telescopes today can. It's almost a different hobby now. ' At 71 years old, Mr. Marriott has even crafted his own telescope, using a 24-inch bass drum for the lens. In October 2023, a remarkable photograph of the Andromeda Galaxy was taken using a telescope during the event. To ensure the best stargazing conditions, there are designated dark hours after sunset. Mr. Marriott explained, 'This is quite a dark site for this part of the country. It's much better than what people have to put up with in towns and cities, but it still has facilities. ' Beyond the opportunity to enjoy the beauty of the night sky, Mr. Marriott emphasized the sense of community among the astronomers who gather for the event. Many astronomy clubs attend as a group, fostering a social atmosphere. He stated, 'There's a shared experience everyone goes through and learning from each other too. ' He also highlighted the issue of light pollution, which prevents many people from seeing parts of the galaxy that are typically visible to the naked eye. 'We know more about the Milky Way than ever before but see less of it,' he said. However, he encouraged attendees, saying, 'With a decent pair of binoculars, you might be able to see the Milky Way. On a dark night, it's absolutely stunning. All you need is a sun lounger and some binoculars - brilliant! ' The star party has become a cherished tradition, allowing people to connect with each other and appreciate the wonders of the universe.