Aliwood Roof Lanterns: The Secret to Stargazing

Did you know that roof lanterns can accommodate seasonal stargazing in the perfect way?

Some of the most spectacular starry sights have been seen through them, so if you’re a dedicated sky-watcher, you’re in for a treat. In this week’s blog, we thought we’d take a closer look at the night sky and reveal why a skylight is a constellation compulsory!

Winter to Summer Stargazing

Whatever the season, a roof lantern can support your stargazing hobby. As an avid stargazer, you’ll most likely have experienced a few of nature’s extreme elements whilst on watch. Perhaps the cold wind and winter temperatures, biting as your perch outside; or the hot air and gnats nibbling your ankles in the Summer – all in the name of seeing a stellar phenomenon.

With an Aliwood roof lantern, these uncomfortable extras come to an end. Instead of enduring the elements, you can sit back, relax and enjoy a night of stargazing from the complete comfort of your own home! It means that the opportunity to stargaze is always there and you’ll be safe and warm.

There is so much to see throughout the changing seasons – space looks different each night, so it’s worth investing in a roof lantern just for the incredible changes you’re guaranteed to see. From meteor showers, bright constellations to shooting stars, the possibilities are endless. At this time of year, keep an eye out for the Leonids, which light up the sky in mid-November. Be prepared to witness several bright meteors per hour!

Eclipse Effective

Talking of space spectaculars, you can enjoy the lunar eclipse from indoors also! They’re much more common than their solar equivalent, and quite the sight. The moon often turns crimson during a full eclipse, as the sun is filtered through the dust in the atmosphere. This lights the lunar surface with the combined sunrises and sunsets from around the world. The next full lunar eclipse visible from the UK is not until May 2022, but we suggest using your roof lantern to explore the skies through the changing seasons until then!

Bringing Space to Life

Now when we say space, we don’t just mean in terms of the cosmos. We mean your home, on planet Earth too! A roof lantern can enhance any space within your home. With carefully angled panels, and beautiful large shapes, they’ll fill your chosen room with light from above, allowing you to make the most of those daylight hours in a bright and airy atmosphere. The light they allow in also extends to night time, meaning those twilight hours can become prime stargazing time.

Stargazing Tips

So, you have your roof lantern, but you’re not an experienced stargazer – what do you do? Well here are our top tips for catching the best sights of the night sky this Winter.

Lighting

Turn off all the lights before you begin stargazing. Bright indoor lighting will affect what you can see in the sky. So, be sure to turn all lights off to ensure a clearer view of those tiny stars. Once all is off, find a quiet spot beneath your skylight, get comfy with a blanket or two, and immerse yourself in nature’s wonder!

Binoculars

Now, contrary to popular belief, you don’t need a telescope to stargaze. In fact, on a clear  night, you should be able to spot the stars using just your eyes! However, if you’re after a bit more detail in what you’re looking at, a pair of binoculars will work just fine. They’re space saving and will work a treat whilst you become more confident with your night sky knowledge!

Apps

There are some great free stargazing apps that you can get your hands on. Whilst you’re learning, these act as a handy guide to show you exactly what you’re looking at and move in real time with you. Hold your phone up to the sky and it will use your location to reveal the stars you are able to see. This is a great way to start spotting constellations through your roof lantern! Be sure to have your phone brightness down, so you aren’t limited in what you can see.

Get in Touch

Whether it’s for stargazing, or to enhance your home, if you’re interested in purchasing a roof lantern this Winter, then we’d love to hear from you! At Aliwood, we have over 30 years’ experience to ensure that you are getting the right product for your home. Contact our friendly team today for further information, or give us a call on 01245 967107. We look forward to hearing from you!