AstroFest brings space enthusiasts to Sutton Veny

Space lovers of all ages came to Sutton Veny last month for the two-day AstroFest event.

The event was packed with space-themed education and entertainment, including a pop-up planetarium, a suspended 3D illuminated moon, a solar system explorer VR experience and educational talks.

“AstroFest 2026 was brilliant – it was really well received by everyone who attended,” said Liz Lee from StarQuest Astronomy Club, which organised the event.

“We had Josh Dury, an internationally renowned astrophotographer, doing a workshop. The planetarium in the church was a big hit, as was the VR in the village hall. All of the club members who had educational tables were thoroughly engaged with talking to the public about their chosen subject.”

Topics included black holes, the aurora, the International Space Station, astronomy for the blind, astrophotography and spectroscopy.

“The general public were able to look at the sky through telescopes and even had a chance to look at the sun through a solar telescope,” said Liz. “And of course, our hit was being allowed to display the illuminated moon in Sutton Veny Church thanks to Warminster Town Council.

“The church was really pleased that it increased footfall into the space and loved having a community event there. The club was buzzing.”

StarQuest Astronomy Club meets monthly at Sutton Veny Village Hall. For more information, contact starquestac@outlook.com.

Pictured right: Josh Drury. Below: StarQuest members