the Star Disc project, a granite sculpture with luminous constellations near Wirksworth, Derbyshire

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• callingabout the inspiration behind the creation of the Stardisc

Conceived and designed by artist Aidan Shingler, this 21st Century Stone Circle and Celestial Amphitheatre is intended to inspire, entertain, engage and educate.

Throughout my life, I have been enchanted by the mystery and magic of the stars. The inspiration for the StarDisc stems from a vision to create environments where people from all walks of life can gather, contemplate, and connect with whatever lies beyond the sphere of our world. The StarDisc is a temple without walls.

- Aidan Shingler 2011

Photograph: Tony Fisher

StarDisc facts:

Location:

Stoney Wood, Wirksworth, Derbyshire, UK, Planet Earth

Latitude:

53.0859 N

Longitude:

1.5781 W

The StarDisc spans 12 metres. Carved into black granite is a star chart that mirrors the northern hemisphere’s night sky. The surface of the stone circle is inscribed with the constellations, their names, and a depiction of the Milky Way. Black stone has been chosen to evoke the darkness of deep space. Contrasting with the star chart is a perimeter of silver/grey granite on which 12 seats are positioned. The seats denote the months of the year. By night, 72 lights illuminate the StarDisc, powered by our nearest star - the Sun.

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