We are delighted to unveil a collection of six stamps, created in partnership with the Isle of Man Astronomical Society and Visit Isle of Man, featuring the stunning aurora borealis as observed in Manx skies. These stamps are available in various formats: Set, Sheet Set, Presentation Pack, First Day Cover, Prestige Booklet, Booklet Pane, and Collectors Pack.
Issue text author and specialist Howard Parkin BSc. BEd. FRAS said: “I am delighted to have been involved with these beautiful stamps, which show some spectacular images of the aurora borealis from our Island’s shores. With our fantastic dark skies, the Isle of Man is a great place to see the aurora or Northern Lights. The Sun goes through an 11 year cycle and the 2024 - 2026 peak has led to some dramatic displays in 2024, shown brilliantly in this innovative issue.”
Visit Isle of Man said: “We are delighted to support the Isle of Man Post Office’s latest stamp collection, which beautifully highlights the Island’s extraordinary dark skies. Boasting the highest concentration of dark sky sites and among the lowest levels of light pollution in the British Isles, the Isle of Man is a premier destination for stargazers and nature lovers alike. This year, the Island has treated us to some breath-taking celestial displays, including the Aurora Borealis, making it an unforgettable destination for all who visit.”
Maxine Cannon, General Manager Stamps & Coins said: “We are thrilled to celebrate the natural beauty of the aurora borealis through this stamp issue. The Isle of Man’s dark skies offer a unique opportunity to witness this awe-inspiring phenomenon, and we are proud to capture that magic in this collection. It demonstrates you don’t have to travel to Northern Europe to witness such beauty, on so many occasions in 2024 it has been right on our doorstep. " She added “I would like to thank everyone who worked on this issue and my special thanks go out to the members of the Manx public, who followed our request to send in their images.”