STARGAZERS across South Wales will be looking skywards this weekend as a new festival begins in the region.

The Brecon Beacons Dark Sky Reserve is launching its first ever festival from 24 – 26 September.

The Dark Sky Festival is taking place virtually and will feature inspiring online events covering topics ranging from bats to cosmology to the myths and legends of the night sky.

Lord Martin Rees, Astronomer Royal and co-chair of the All-Party Parliamentary group for Dark Skies will be launching the festival, together with a warm welcome from the National Park’s new chief executive, Catherine Mealing-Jones.

The Brecon Beacons National Park is only one of 18 places in the world with dark sky reserve status.

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The area enjoys light pollution free dark skies which allow viewing of the milky way on clear nights, amongst many other celestial treats.

Festival organiser Carol Williams said: "We’re really excited about bringing these events to the public.

"It will be a real feast for the mind but delivered in an accessible way so the whole family will find something to enjoy.

"We’ll be exploring topics like, why are we made of stardust, what does planet earth looks like from a far-away galaxy and how you can observe the planets at home.

"We hope you will join us and discover the beauty of our night sky from the comfort of your home with your family and friends."

The festival is suitable for anyone with an interest in the night sky, particularly younger audiences over the age of 10.

Please visit breconbeacons.org/stargazing for more information and to book. All events are £2 per household.