In a winter marked by frequent cloud cover, wind and rain, expectations for any outdoor observations at the either of the two-star party events at Whitby Youth Hostel were understandably very modest. The question remained whether these low expectations would be realized yet again? [Read more about Whitby Youth Hostel Events - Feb 18th & Feb 21st ]
The society will be supporting a busy schedule of Star Party/Outreach events planned for February including two at Whitby Youth Hostel. [Read more about WDAS Star Party Schedule - February ]
Society monthly meetings continue with the next meeting on Feb 3rd. The venue is Whitby School (Prospect Hill). Start time is 7:30pm, room H1. [Read more about Society Meetings ]
Society subscriptions for members, or for anyone wishing to join the society, are now due for renewal. Details are as follows, please read carefully. [Read more about WDAS Subs renewal/joining fee for 2026]
Time again for our monthly round-up of Sunday open nights at the Bruce Observatory - Whitby School. [Read more about Bruce Diary]
Held at Beetle Bank Farm - Moor Lane near Murton, just off the A64 opposite York, the Astro convention was a ticketed event incorperating five lectures and buffet lunch. A number of WDAS members had booked places for the day out. Full details of the lectures themselves will be forthcoming in the spring months, but here is a brief synopsis of the day. [Read more about York Astro Convention 2026]
Members of WDAS travelled over to Danby on Jan 23rd to take a closer look at the new observatory and listen to proposals on how it will be operated.
WDAS members will be saddened to hear of the passing of
its eldest member John Randles from Westerdale who had been a member since the early 2000's. Further sad news came to our attention very recently when we learned of the death of Dr Allan Chapman. January has robbed us of two very special, respected characters, who's like is only too rare. [Read more about John Randles: Dr Allan Chapman.]
WDAS members assisted in making a 'star night' a memorable affair for 5th year pupils from Stakesby School, who had a sleep over at the residential unit located at East Whitby Academy. [Read more about School Class - Star Evening. ]
Work on the new observatory at Danby Lodge is almost complete, with fixtures and fittings, instrumentation and display features in sittu. Training and open dates to follow this month.
| Sun | Rise | Set |
|---|---|---|
| Actual | 05:24 | 20:34 |
| Civil Twilight | 04:42 | 21:16 |
| Nautical Twilight | 03:46 | 22:12 |
| Astronomical Twilight | 02:28 | 23:31 |
| Moon | Rise | Set |
|---|---|---|
| 19:43 | 04:37 |
