South Downs National Park Celebrates Dark Skies with Photography Competition

The South Downs National Park recently held its annual astro-photography competition, commemorating the 10th anniversary of its designation as an International Dark Sky Reserve. The contest attracted over 130 entries, showcasing the beauty of the night sky above the park.

Brighton Argus

Michael Harris, a photographer from Brighton, won the top prize for his photograph titled "Ancient Light," which captures the Milky Way over an abandoned barn in Balsdean Valley, East Sussex. Dan Oakley, a dark skies expert and judge for the competition, praised the photograph as "incredible and realistic," highlighting its beautiful framing. Harris reflected on the historical significance of the location, noting its long history from Roman times to its use during World War II, stating, "All of which have long since come and gone in the time it has taken for the light from the Milky Way above to reach us, which is approximately 26,000 years."

The Independent

In the "Life At Night" category, Richard Murray from Waterlooville won with his image "Snail Trail To The Stars," depicting a snail beneath The Plough asterism. Judge Elinor Newman described the photograph as encapsulating life at night, praising its detail and inspirational quality.

Brighton ArgusThe Independent

The competition introduced a new category, "South Downs To Deep Space," which was won by Nigel Stanbury from Haslemere for his photograph "Jellyfish Nebula." This image captures the remains of a supernova located 5,000 light-years away. Oakley remarked on the striking resemblance of the nebula to a jellyfish, stating, "It looks straight out of Star Trek." Stanbury explained that the image required 22 hours of exposure over three nights to reveal its colors and details.

The IndependentBrighton Argus

The ongoing Dark Skies Festival, which runs until February 22, offers various activities, including night walks and opportunities to engage with local astronomy groups. The festival aims to promote awareness of nocturnal wildlife and the importance of preserving dark skies.

Brighton Argus

The South Downs National Park emphasizes its commitment to protecting dark skies through responsible lighting policies and public education. The park's designation as an International Dark Sky Reserve highlights its significance as a prime location for stargazing in the UK.

Brighton ArgusThe Independent

• “I think this is an incredible and realistic photo of what the South Downs Dark Skies experience is. It’s beautifully framed.” — Dan Oakley, Dark Skies Expert

The Independent

• “He said: "The site has had a long history with Roman occupation, as a medieval hamlet, use as accommodation during the Second World War and for farming.” — Michael Harris, Photographer

Brighton Argus

• “This really does encapsulate life at night, with the snail, flora and lichen. The image has incredible detail, captures a moment and takes me to another place. A very inspiring image.” — Elinor Newman, Judge

The Independent

The South Downs National Park's photography competition not only celebrates the beauty of the night sky but also reinforces the importance of preserving dark environments for future generations. The event continues to inspire both amateur and professional photographers while promoting the park as a premier destination for stargazing.

Brighton Argus