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Dark sky spots · Northern Ireland
Dark skies in County Tyrone
Northern Ireland's first Dark Sky Park is in Davagh Forest, with the OM observatory.
OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory
International Dark Sky Park, designated by DarkSky International in 2020. In Davagh Forest, County Tyrone, Northern Ireland's first Dark Sky Park, with an observatory near the Beaghmore stone circles.
The observatory runs events; the Beaghmore stone circles nearby are a memorable night-time sight. More details: https://www.omdarksky.com/
When to go
- September to March gives long, dark nights; in June the sky never gets fully dark across much of the UK.
- Go near the new moon: see our moon calendar.
- Time a visit for a meteor shower, such as the Perseids in August or Geminids in December.
What to bring
- Warm layers, a hat and a flask: it is colder than you think on open ground.
- A red torch to keep your night vision.
- Binoculars: 10×50s show the Moon's craters and Jupiter's moons.
- A sky map app set to red night mode.
Be a good visitor
Park only in proper car parks, keep to paths, close gates and take your litter home. Many sites are working farmland or nature reserves.
Nearby local guides
Our local guides for Belfast and Derry list more sacred sites, shops and dark-sky spots.
Questions answered
Where is the darkest sky in County Tyrone?
OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory, an International Dark Sky Park.
When is the best time to stargaze in County Tyrone?
Clear, moonless nights from autumn to early spring.
Can I see the Milky Way in County Tyrone?
Yes, from OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory on clear moonless nights, best from late summer to autumn.
Key facts (summary)
- Northern Ireland's first Dark Sky Park is in Davagh Forest, with the OM observatory.
- OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory, an International Dark Sky Park.
- Clear, moonless nights from autumn to early spring.
- Yes, from OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory on clear moonless nights, best from late summer to autumn.
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