Hundreds gather for ‘star party’

Alan Marriott, a passionate amateur astronomer, recently gained attention for his impressive homemade telescope, crafted from an old bass drum shell. He proudly showcased it at what many consider the UK’s largest “star party,” organized by the Loughton Astronomical Society in Norfolk.

For the past thirty years, the society has welcomed stargazers to the Kelling Heath Holiday Park, making the festival a favorite among hundreds of astronomy enthusiasts eager to capture breathtaking images and explore celestial wonders.

“Stargazing has become a shared experience,” Marriott explains, highlighting the event’s community spirit, where participants learn from one another. “It started out as an extended weekend, and over time, it has transformed into a full week of activities. We often have anywhere from 300 to 400 attendees, and at peak times, we can see around 1,000 people. Though counting them can be a bit tricky!”

Marriott reflects on how the event has evolved from its beginnings in Thetford, where it quickly outgrew its original venue. The star party attracts amateur astronomers of all experience levels and interests. While some attendees focus on capturing stunning astronomical images, others, like Marriott, are drawn to visual observation.

“The technology has advanced so much that what observatories couldn’t accomplish years ago can now be achieved with today’s telescopes. It practically feels like a completely different hobby,” he notes, emphasizing the rapid developments in astronomical equipment.

At 71, Marriott proudly presents his inventive 24-inch lens telescope made from a bass drum. He mentions the importance of designated dark hours after sunset to ensure optimal stargazing conditions. “This location is among the darkest in the region, providing a significant advantage over the light pollution many experience in urban settings, while still offering essential amenities.”

Beyond the stunning views of the night sky, Marriott emphasizes the sense of camaraderie among fellow astronomers at the event. “Many astronomy clubs come together, fostering a social atmosphere,” he shares. “Everyone has a unique experience, and there’s a wealth of knowledge being exchanged among participants.”

Marriott also points out that urban light pollution hinders many from witnessing the beauty of galaxies visible to the naked eye. “We understand the Milky Way better than we ever have, yet we see less of it,” he remarks. “But with just a good pair of binoculars, you may catch a glimpse of the Milky Way. On a truly dark night, it’s breathtaking—all you need is a lounge chair and some binoculars. It’s brilliant!”

The star party serves as both a celebration of astronomy and a gathering where knowledge is shared and friendships are forged under the magnificent, twinkling sky.