Best-selling author in observatory naming honour

A best-selling author whose love of the Northumberland dark skies is often reflected in her suspense-filled novels has officially renamed part of a major tourist attraction. 

Best-selling author in observatory naming honour

A best-selling author whose love of the Northumberland dark skies is often reflected in her suspense-filled novels has officially renamed part of a major tourist attraction. 

LJ Ross, a keen champion of the North East, was chosen by supporters of Kielder Observatory to unveil the newly named Caroline Herschel Turret in a ceremony which celebrated women in science.

The turret has been renamed to honour the British astronomer, Caroline, who was the first woman to receive a salary as a scientist and who discovered several comets. Alongside her brother, William, who was Court Astronomer to George III, they uncovered more than 2,400 astronomical objects over 20 years. Caroline was later awarded a gold medal from the Royal Astronomical Society and was elected an Honorary Member in 1835 for her pioneering work. 

Said LJ Ross: "The Dark Sky area is a place that carries a special significance for me. The magical Kielder Forest and its stunning observatory have played a huge part in nurturing my fascination of the night sky and has inspired my writing and career- both as the location for my 2017 DCI Ryan mystery Dark Skies, which was a #1 bestseller in the UK, and as the name of my publishing house, Dark Skies Publishing.

"I was extremely honoured to be invited to officially rename the turret and particularly enthused by their decision to pay tribute to such an inspirational and iconic figure. Beyond her many contributions to astronomy, Caroline Herschel was a trailblazer of women's rights who battled against prejudice her whole life to earn her rightful place among her peers. I can't think of a more fitting homage to one of astronomy's pioneering female heroes."

The ceremony formed part of celebrations for the observatory's 15th anniversary. The charity now puts on more than 700 events per year, carries out extensive outreach projects in schools across the North East and attracts around 20,000 visitors per year.

Hannah Matterson, Director of Operations and Marketing at Kielder Observatory, said: 

"We're an organisation which actively supports women in STEM and we love to inspire the next generation to get involved in astronomy and science. Caroline Herschel was one of the most prominent female scientists in the country in the late 1700s, and she seemed the perfect person to name our second turret after and to celebrate her contribution to science. 

"LJ Ross's name came up again and again when we asked our supported who should officially rename the turret. We know she has a love of the dark skies around Northumberland and is passionate about the North East, as we are. We're so pleased she would be with us for the ceremony."