The islands of Canna, Eigg, Muck and Rum lie just south of the Isle of Skye, sitting between the west coast Scottish mainland and the Western Isles. Each island has an abundance of wildlife, rich heritage and incredible landscapes but, while they are close together, each island feels very different. One thing they have in common is they each generate their own electricity from renewable sources.
Dark Skies Tourism
With the Islands of Canna and Rum applying for Dark Sky status, l thought it would be useful to compile a list of helpful resources if you want to support Dark Sky Tourism and promote it to visitors.
Consider providing a 'star gazing pack' for visitors. (Items you might want to consider including: a flask & hot chocolate mix, binoculars, a guide to the night sky as well as links to stargazing apps, a blanket, a red flashlight and normal flashlight).
Interested in hosting a Dark Skies Event on the Small Isles. Here are some ideas for events (compiled from resources on the web).
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Host a night walk
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Host a dark skies writing/ poetry event
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Organise a star gazing event with guidance on how and what to see.
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Star lore - share stories of the night sky.
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Run a nocturnal wildlife tour.
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Create a night sky photography competition.
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Host a Dark Sky movie screening. This video is available free on youtube.
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Check out this video for tips on how to host a fun dark sky event.
Dark Sky Festivals throughout the UK.
Dark Sky Press
