Dorset CPRE is inviting everyone to take part in Star Count 2020 (21-28 February) to help map our magical dark skies.

Star Count 2020, organised by the CPRE gives people the opportunity to become ‘citizen scientists’ by taking part in a cosmic census that will help to map our dark skies.

To take part, star count-ers, whether in town or countryside, are asked to choose a clear night between Friday 21 and Friday 28 February. During this time the moon is less bright, making it easier to carry out a cosmic census, although CPRE will accept results from any nights in the second half of February. Without using a telescope or binoculars, people can then count the stars within the rectangle shape formed by Orion, except the four stars on the outer corners, then submit their results at cpre.org.uk/starcount.

CPRE’s Star Count is supported by the British Astronomical Association’s Commission for Dark Skies (CfDS).

Expert astronomer Bob Mizon from the CfDS, who lives in Dorset, said: ‘As well as being a wonderful opportunity to get outdoors and enjoy the night sky, Star Count is starting to give us some really useful information. We’re hoping many more people will join in this year and give us the best map ever.’

Last year’s Star Count results showed that light pollution, often caused by the glow and glare from street and outdoor household and sports lighting, is making beautiful starry skies a rare sight for many of us. Just 2% of people who took part in Star Count 2019 told us they were viewing a truly dark sky.

Dark night skies are a special quality of the Dorset AONB (Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty) and contribute to the areas sense of tranquillity and remoteness. A combination of clear night skies and low levels of light pollution make Dorset one of the best places in the country for stargazing.

Dark skies are also important for the health and wellbeing of people and animals. Too much artificial light can impact our sleep, disrupt nature’s natural cycles and confuse wildlife. In addition to helping the nation reconnect with the wonder of a starry sky, CPRE will use the data to lobby local councils to make changes to reduce the impact of artificial light.