People in Wellington are being asked to take part in the Somerset Star Count, starting tomorrow (Saturday).
The project is being run by CPRE Somerset, the local branch of the Campaign to Protect Rural England
It wants people to count the number of stars they see in the Orion constellation to help map the best and worst places in our county to enjoy a star-filled night sky.
CPRE says a clear view of a star-filled night sky has a hugely beneficial effect on our mental health.
Like access to other forms of nature, it can help reduce stress and increase a sense of peace and wellbeing.
Research has even shown that regularly spending time looking at the stars can lower blood pressure and reduce depression. Yet, incredibly, the night sky has no legal protection.
Becky Collier, Manager of CPRE Somerset said: “We need your help measure light pollution here in Somerset.
“The results from our Somerset Star Count will help us create a map of where light pollution is most serious.
“It will help us to try to raise awareness and find ways of tackling this problem, that affects us all.”
HOW TO TAKE PART …
First, choose a clear night between tomorrow and Saturday, February 21st, then …
1) Wrap up warm and head outside.
2) Turn off all the lights in your house.
3) Take a few minutes to let your eyes adjust to the darkness.
4) Count the stars in Orion and send CPRE Somerset your results. Look south (the way satellite dishes point) and find the Orion constellation. It’s best to look for the three bright stars in a row that form Orion’s belt. Now find the four stars that form a rectangle around the constellation. Then count all the stars you can see within that rectangle. Include Orion’s belt, but not the four corner stars.
5) Submit your Somerset Star Count result online at https://www.cpresomerset.org.uk/news/somerset-star-count/
