The United States is celebrating their Astronomy Day today, Saturday, 13th October, but here in Malta, we too can look up to comprehend the magnitude of the universe and understand our (very, very) small place within it. Forget fireworks – stars create a show to watch out for. The Malta Astronomy Society organises regular events and workshops, aiming to promote the art and science of the study of the skies. But, to inspire you to take the plunge, here are some starry views we’d like to see more of:
1. A mantle of light over St John’s Co-Cathedral
The bustling atmosphere of Valletta by day and night belies the peace of the sky above. A few years ago, the capital was dead but for the sound of insects scurrying in their nooks and corners. Today, the lights may dim the possibility of spotting the lights above, but find a spot away from the crowds and take your camera out.
2. The sky above rural bays and beaches
This image may be slightly doctored but it nonetheless give a sense of the starry magic you can experience at one of the more rural parts of Malta’s beachside spots. Head to Ghajn Tuffieha (otherwise known as Riviera beach) at night, now that October has truly set in, for a quiet glass of wine under a glistening sky; or else head to Slugs Bay in Mellieha for an even more secluded spot.
3. Star-gazing by medieval towers
The Knights of Malta were always hyper aware of the possibility of attack. After the Great Siege in 1565, they remained on high-alert and had built towers such as this one in Bahar ic-Caghaq to keep a sentinel watching the horizon. Today, these sights are reminders of an age where conflict was par for the course, though their medieval aspect lends much to the atmosphere when you’re star-gazing.
4. A look out – above!
Senglea’s Gardjola Gardens opens up the town and provides a spot to set up your telescope. The look-out at the tip of the bastions guarding one side of the three cities boasts elevation and an aspect clean of much light pollution - though watch out for those cruise ships! They can really prove to be a distraction. The bay in Kalkara, just a five-minute drive from here, is also a good option should you want to taste a bit of variety.
5. Live life close to skies at the temples
It is well known that the inhabitants which lives on these three tiny rocks in the central Mediterranean were advanced and systemised their year, habits and routines based on the movements of the stars. The summer and winter solstice are both events which were central to their calendar and, nowadays, these vestiges of the past link us to a primordial time during which people’s lives were measured by the heavens.
Featured image: www.viewingmalta.com / William Attard McCarthy