Local Observing Sites
The Society committee and members have surveyed 13 publicly accessible, potential observing sites. The below list of suitable sites, local to the Nottingham area, comprises sites which individual members have used and reported as satisfactory for their astronomical observations; be they naked eye, binocular or telescope based. The sites will not be periodically visited / reviewed by the committee. Therefore, if a site is found to be dis-satisfactory, newly light polluted or new sites are found, then please notify the secretary who will update the list in accordance with new information.
Please note that each site has a googlemap link, a grid reference and a textual description to help you locate it. It may also be worth using googlemaps streetviewer to peruse the area to decide whether it is appropriate for your own use. We advise leaving in day light hours to identify the site.
We intend that this list of sites will grow as the membership contribute new observing sites that they find.
In addition to this list, there is of course the Society Observatory & Site.
Site Link | Easting | Northing | Description | Images |
1 | 466560 | 335140 |
Near Cotgrave, Road siding on Colston Gate, 500m East of Junction with A46 (North Side of Road). Space for 4 cars. |
Img 1 |
4 | 467900 | 332400 |
Grantham Canal off road Parking, 1km north of Kinoulton on Swabs Lane, Parking area is off road, to the south side of the canal car park on the East side of the road. |
Img 4a Img 4b |
9 | 475550 | 332320 |
Roadside parking at 90 degree Bend in Canal Lane between Harby & Plungar. Site is ca. 1km SE of Langar Air Field, 25m south from Grantham Canal, near Dove Cottage tea rooms. Room for 2-3 cars. Dark sky area. |
Img 9a Img 9b |
Technical Help
The Society is lucky to have members with a great deal of experience in astronomical observing and links to several other societies. We therefore maintain a directory of experts and offer advice and assistance in the set up and use of observing equipment and techniques.
For the public: We offer advice on request.
For Society Members: We offer both advice and addition to an observing email list on request.
Additional Information: In addition to the above you will find a variety of useful links which may help you on our links page.