A COUNTRYSIDE charity is asking the public in Dorset to count stars during a two week period from today.

The Dorset Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) team is supporting CPRE’s Star Count, a cosmic census to map people’s view of the night sky.

Dorset AONB said: “A star-filled sky is one of the most magical sights you can see in our countryside and the stars have inspired art and culture for thousands of years. But too often, light pollution means that many of us can’t see the stars, especially if we live in or near a big town or city.”

The results of the count will help CPRE create an interactive map of the nation’s view of the night sky, and where light pollution is at its worst, so councils can take action.

It is described as a family-friendly activity that’s quick and easy to do.

You can join in and become a ‘citizen scientist’ by picking a clear night between now and March 6 and counting the number of stars you can see within the constellation of Orion.

The activity does not require a telescope or any special equipment.

Visit www.cpre.org.uk/starcount