Stargazing in our hinterland

With global light pollution increasing at a rate of 10 per cent on average every year, it is now becoming rarer to truly experience a dark night sky. In our hinterland we are still fortunate to have dark night skies where there is minimal light pollution. This provides a great opportunity to relax, unwind and connect with nature through stargazing.

Where is it best to stargaze in our proposed Dark Sky Reserve?

Observatories

Maleny Observatory - The Brisbane Astronomical Society offers public viewing nights at the Maleny Observatory throughout the year. Visit the Sunshine Coast Astronomy - Qld Facebook page for public events.

Mapleton Observatory - The Mapleton Observatory is located at Mapleton State School and offers open nights including private viewing nights. Visit the Mapleton Observatory webpage for more information.

Parks and lookouts to stargaze

Specific parks and lookouts can offer a great stargazing experience in our proposed Dark Sky Reserve due to their position, view of the sky and facilities available:

Park Name	Locality
Balmoral Ridge Lookout	Balmoral Ridge
Howells Knob Lookout	Reesville
Isaac Moore Park	Kenilworth
Little Yabba Rest Area	Cambroon
Pioneer Park	Gheerulla
Russell Family Park	Montville
Tete Park	Conondale

Note: Parks in lower areas of the hinterland may be subject to fog during cooler nights.

Plan your stargazing experience

There are many things you can do to prepare for a great night out under the stars.

• Check the weather forecast before you go.
• Know where you are going - many spots will be dark with minimal to no lighting.
• Let someone know where you are going and when you will be back.
• Bring your mobile phone or communication device - note some locations may not have mobile phone reception.
• Take a friend.
• Wear appropriate clothing and footwear to stay warm and reduce risk of injury.
• Bring a first aid kit and insect repellent.
• Bring water and snacks.
• Take a torch or head lamp.
• Bring your stargazing equipment such as a telescope or binoculars. Don’t have these? Don’t worry: there is plenty to see with the naked eye.
• Download an astronomy app to help identify planets, constellations, the Milky Way and more.

Stargazing at any time of year is fun but you’ll see the most stars on a clear, cooler night and within a week of the new moon (no visible moon).

Did you know we are proposing to establish a Dark Sky Reserve in the Sunshine Coast hinterland?

To support the preservation of our dark night skies in the hinterland, Council is proposing to establish a Dark Sky Reserve through the International Dark Sky Places Program.

Keeping our night sky dark and filled with stars is important for:

• our health and wellbeing
• wildlife that move and feed at night
• helping to reduce our emissions
• supporting local businesses.