THE Campaign to Protect Rural England (CPRE) is calling on local people to take part in a cosmic census to map the view of Somerset’s night sky.

CPRE’s Somerset Star Count citizen science project will run later this month to map light pollution in the skies of the county, between February 14 and 21.

The charity said counting the stars would help it to map local light pollution levels.

A CPRE spokesperson said: “A clear view of the night sky helps balance our mental health and boost emotional wellbeing.

“Like access to other forms of nature, it can help reduce stress and increase a sense of peace and wellbeing.

“Research has even shown that regularly spending time looking at the stars can lower blood pressure and reduce depression.

“But light pollution is blotting out the stars and obstructing our ability to connect with nature.

“Yet, incredibly, the night sky has no legal protection.

“People across Somerset are being asked to count the number of stars they see in the Orion constellation to help map the best and worst places in our county to enjoy a star-filled night sky.

“Together, we can work towards rewilding the night for the benefit of people and wildlife.”

CPRE Somerset manager Becky Collier said: “We need help to measure light pollution here in Somerset.

“The results from our Somerset Star Count will help us create a map of where light pollution is most serious.

“It will help us to try to raise awareness and find ways of tackling this problem, that affects us all.

“We are blessed with some fabulous dark skies in Somerset, especially to the west and in Exmoor National Park, which is an International Dark Sky Reserve.

“However, in many other parts of Somerset, and not just built-up areas, it is harder to see the stars due to light pollution.

“Doing a star count is a great way to switch off from the distractions of daily life and reconnect with nature.

“It only takes a few minutes, is great fun and you do not need a telescope or specialist equipment.

“By taking part, you will become a citizen scientist.

“Your data will help us protect and improve everybody’s view of a clear, sparkling night sky.”

Ms Collier said people should wait for a clear night between February 14 and 21 and then:

To find the Orion constellation people should look south, the way their satellite dishes point, and look for the three bright stars in a row which form Orion’s belt.

Then, find the four stars which form a rectangle around the constellation and count all the stars they can see within that rectangle, including Orion’s belt but not the four corner stars.

Results should then be submitted to the CPRE online by clicking a button on its website.