Milkyway over Greenwhich Observatory, ©Ian Garrett 2023. Acrylic on Canvas 10 x 8 inches.

Greenwich observatory was founded by Charles ll 347 years ago. The very first Astronomer Royal (Astronomer appointed by Royal Decree) moved into Greenwich Observatory in 1647 and the view of the night sky was very different. There was no light pollution blocking out the stars back then. The sky was a rich tapestry of pinpoints of light.

The first two Astronomers Royals used this to their advantage. They were able to plot all the stars visible in the northern and southern hemispheres. It must have been extremely beautiful to look up and see the Milky Way above London in all its glory and grandeur. For all the benefits of the modern world, it is something our children may never witness. This painting is how I imagine the scene.

10” X 8” Acrylic on Canvas. Ready to hang.