The Isle of Canna Community Development Trust is applying for Dark Skies Sanctuary Status.

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The Isle of Canna lies far North (Latitude:57° 03' 28.44" N); because of this we get very long dark Winter nights.

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As our community continues to develop, we are conscious that our natural resources, including our night sky, should be protected. ​​Observations of the Milky Way are a common occurrence, even on late summer evenings, and the "Northern Lights" (Aurora Borealis) is frequently seen.

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We have chosen four sites across our island from where visitors and islanders can view the night sky and wonder at it's beauty. 

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1. Coroghan Beach

2. The Sheep Fank and Tarbert

3. Sanday Beach

4. St Edward's Church

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Each site has been chosen for it's shelter from man-made light, it's clear views of the cosmos and beyond, closeness to local amenities and activities such as UV rockpooling and astrophotography. 

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The community is working towards providing sky gazing resources for visitors. We have purchased a community telescope and hope to be offering star-gazing and UV tours. We are keen to facilitate visits from astro-photographers and the mobile planetarium. Our long term goal is to establish a community observatory so everyone can experience our Dark Skies!

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Have a look at the photos below of our Dark Skies taken on the Isle of Canna!