Almerta Station Offers Astronomy in Adelaide Away from Light Pollution
Almerta Station has been a sheep station for over 100 years and our remote location, far away from the hectic life of the cities, offers unmatched astronomy in Adelaide. Our ancestors looked to the night skies with wonder in their eyes, seeing thousands of twinkling stars and more. Today, the ever-present city lights cast their glow into the night sky, robbing the sky of its beauty and wonder. Away from that light pollution, you can marvel at the night sky as it appeared to our ancestors.
The Importance of Astronomy in South Australia
For thousands of years, aboriginal Australians looked to the southern night sky and the stars twinkling above them, using them as a calendar to track the changing of seasons and assigning them religious and mythic meaning. The interest they took in the stars, and the stories that sprung from them, have led to the aboriginals being called the ‘world’s first astronomers’ by many. Here are a few important things to look out for in the sky when you visit:
- One of the most common and important constellation in aboriginal astronomy is the Emu in the Sky. Unlike most constellations, instead of linking stars together, it is defined by a dark nebula visible against the light of the Milky Way.
- Alpha Centauri is the closest star system to earth at only 4.37 light years from our position. It is a part of the Centaurus constellation and only visible in the Southern Hemisphere. While it can often be seen even in the cities, bring a telescope with you and, on closer inspection, you will see it is indeed three different stars.
- Schedule your visit with us during a celestial event. The stars are much easier to see during a new moon, though many of our guests love the sight of the full moon. Meteor showers are an uncommon but regular event and always put on a great show.
Tips Regarding Bird Watching in South Australia
With a billabong and a large natural spring that holds its water year-round, there is an abundance of birds and other wildlife to watch until the stars make their appearance. Follow these tips when heading on a bird-watching trek:
- The small hill near the shearers’ quarters is an easy climb and will give you a great view of the surroundings.
- We are in the Flinders Ranges, one of the most ancient environments on the planet. Wedge-tailed eagles, brown falcons and other birds of prey are common sights. You might even see a colourful parrot or two.
- Emus, standing at over two meters tall, are hard to miss and an astonishing sight to see in the wild for most bird watchers.
What Customers Stand to Gain if They Come to Almerta Station for Adelaide Astronomy
If you or a member of your family have an interest in astronomy, there are few better places in the world to gaze at the night sky than here, far from the light pollution common to the cities and suburbs. Seeing the stars from the eyes of your ancestor is a sight you will not soon forget. With our inexpensive accommodation, you can turn your stargazing trek into a family vacation away from all the distractions of your hectic lives. If you are interested, contact us today.