February Stargazing
We will gather as usual at 2pm on Sunday the 18th of February outside the Crichton Chapel to practice #SensingSpirituality
We will also have a spring special. Before the clocks change we will have an evening looking at the stars. Thanks to the hospitality of Ann Shuckman we will hold this at Elsieshields just outside Loch Maben.
People are invited to gather at 6.30 and acclimatise to the dark skies.
At 7pm Mark Toner will introduce us to what is going on in the night sky. If the weather is too cloudy and wet we have the technology to go indoors and show what is happening above the clouds using a projector!
We will take a break to reflect, and perhaps walk the illuminated labyrinth in the garden, then head indoors.
After the break Mark will use software to show what the sky would have looked like to the wise men/magi two thousand years ago, and which could have inspired their journey as recorded in Matthew. He will also help us discuss the ways in which religious authority has responded to practices like astrology and astronomy.
As usual, we will adapt to the weather. Please wear stout shoes and warm clothes. Torches, lanterns, and telescopes also encouraged – but please respect other peoples night vision.
There will be accessible activities indoors to compliment the activities which require walking over uneven surfaces in the dark – so plenty for everyone.
Directions to Elsieshields:
Elshieshields Tower DG11 1LY
We are situated a mile and a half outside Lochmaben on the north west side
Our road is called
Nethermill road and it starts by the
Mill Loch in Lochmaben.
If you’re coming from Dumfries when you get to Lochmaben on the A709 take the left turning opposite Crown Hotel. This road is signposted to Templand
Carry on through the town over a junction. In half a Mile you will see Nethermill road on your left. Turn down here ,
Carry on for a mile or so.
Entrance to Elshieshields Tower will be on your left. Drive up the bumpy drive and turn into the courtyard. You’ve arrived!