North York Moors Railway - Stape Outstation Event

Following a highly successful event in 2023, we have again been contacted by Macey Palmer, Learning and Interpretation Officer for the North Yorkshire Moors Railway, to return for another event at the NYMR Outstation site near Stape. Stape is situated in a wide valley between Egton and Pickering, approximately 16 miles from Whitby. The event is scheduled for Friday, April 4th, from 7:30pm to around 9:30pm. 

Members of the public have registered for the event through NYMR and will be transported to Stape from Pickering. The Outstation offers excellent facilities, and refreshments will be available. The event will be divided into two segments: an indoor presentation, potentially featuring an outdoor scale solar system demonstration, followed by observations of the night sky as twilight deepens. Jupiter and Mars, along with a first quarter Moon, will be visible if the skies are clear.

Although initial twilight levels will be bright, conditions should allow for observations by 8:30pm and it should be dark enough for the last 45 minutes. The location is known for its darkness, being one of the best in the National Parks area, as evidenced by our previous visit when we experienced exceptionally dark, clear skies. The most direct route is via Egton Bridge and along the Wheeldale road (approximately 25 minutes from Whitby). However, due to flooding on our last visit we had to take the longer route, via the A169 route through Pickering.  We shall need to depart Whitby by 6:30pm to arrive at the Outstation around 7pm allowing time for setup. Mark would be greatful of assistance - two or three vehicles would be preferable, 4 scopes - 4 members. Further details will be provided at the April meeting.

See https://www.nymr.co.uk/Event/stargazing for details.