Summer Solstice Night with the Moon

PLEASE NOTE: the astronomers will present the evening in Italian only

For the Summer Solstice we have organised a special event, where sky, earth and history meet, in collaboration with the L’Unione Sarda Planetarium. We will watch the sun set at the nuraghe complex of Grutt’i Acua, travelling back in time to discover the daring of the ancient Sardinians, careful observers of the sky.

In front of the entrance to the Giants’ Tomb (Tomba dei Giganti) we will watch the sunset on the longest days of the year, looking out for the rare “green flash”, the green glow the Sun leaves just before it dips into the sea. Meanwhile, Lisa Mura of Aguadora Experience will take us into a world of myths and legends, telling the history and traditions of the places we visit.

Once night falls, the waxing Moon will take centre stage among the stars, alongside the planet Venus. Astrophysicist Manuel Floris, scientific director of the L’Unione Sarda Planetarium, will guide us on a journey through space and time, tracing the constellations and telling their myths with a powerful laser that makes the stars feel within reach. Through two powerful telescopes we will also observe the Moon, the bright but elusive planet Venus and distant star clusters.

The evening’s programme

• Arrival at the Ranch and check-in
• A short visit to meet the Ranch animals
• 1 km walk to the Giants’ Tomb
• Guided tour with astrophysicist Manuel Floris and tour guide Lisa Mura of Aguadora Experience
• Live music
• Return to the Ranch, 1 km walk
• Pizza dinner from Renzo&Rita pizzeria, or a Cantina Giba wine tasting + a box of typical Sardinian products from Ristorante Luna nel Pozzo (cured sausage, semi-aged cheese, fresh cheese, olives, prosciutto, bread)
• Live music by maestro Federico Dessì
• Stargazing session with astrophysicist Manuel Floris