During October 2024, we teamed up with Dark Sky Wales to host mobile planetarium sessions. Over three days, at three different locations, people in the community were invited to learn more about the constellations visible in the night sky. For those of you who don’t know, a mobile planetarium is a dome that is filled with air to help it take shape, and inside, a projector is used to display constellations onto its ceiling allowing for an immersive experience. 

Our first location was Neuadd Rhoshirwaun. During the day, we welcomed a group of people from Canolfan Gwystl where they learnt about the constellations and their mythology. During the evening, people from the nearby community were invited to learn the same, and how to identify each constellation. The second day’s location was Plas Heli, where Ysgol Chwilog were welcomed to enjoy the marvels of the night sky. “Wow” was all you could hear from the outside of the planetarium! We got up to something a little different during the evening sessions, using telescopes and binoculars to search for the Tsuchinshan-ATLAS commet, and inspect the craters on the moon. Allan from Dark Sky Wales also used a pointer to identify each constellation visible. The effect light pollution has on the night sky was also demonstrated, and how we can help minimise it in our own homes. The last location was Ganolfan Nefyn where Ysgol Pentreuchaf, Llangybi and Nefyn were welcomed. All the children had questions and loved looking at the wonders of the night sky in the planetarium. 

Thank you to all who came to the sessions! Additionally, thank you to the Heritage Lottery Fund for making this experience possible!