The 6th Kielder Forest Star Camp took place from 29 October to 2 November--and stargazers were left counting their lucky stars.

Once again the event was oversubscribed with record numbers arriving early to maximise their chances of clear weather. Many were rewarded with icy pristine skies. In fact clear slots occurred over four of the five nights of the event.

But while the stars did their best, the high water table after a wet summer resulted in muddy campsite conditions. Shut your eyes and it could have been Glastonbury!

Those still awake were rewarded by the best skies between 2 am and dawn on the Saturday morning, as transparency improved and the seeing steadied. Cars were covered in ice by the morning revealing what a great night it had been!

The main day at Kielder Castle was extremely well attended, with talks by Ian King and Dr Nigel Metcalf delivered to packed audiences. Vendors filled the 18th century building with astro-goodies. On the Friday many star campers ventured up to the Kielder Observatory to see the £480,000 facility in all its glory as the sun went down on a clear sky.

Once again thanks to everyone who attended and put up with such wet ground conditions on the Kielder Campsite. Check back for news of next year's events. Meanwhile click on the thumbnails to see images taken by observers at the star camp.