Taigh-solais Eilean Glas
V945+Q6 Isle of Scalpay, UK
Name and Location
Taigh-solais Eilean Glas (Eilean Glas Lighthouse) is located on the Isle of Scalpay, off the coast of Scotland, UK.
Construction and History
The construction of Taigh-solais Eilean Glas began in 1893 and was completed in 1897. The lighthouse was built to serve as a navigational aid for ships navigating the treacherous waters of the North Sea.
Architecture and Materials
The lighthouse stands at an impressive 43 meters (141 feet) tall, with a focal height of 23 meters (75 feet). Its distinctive architecture features a cast-iron tower with a square base and tapering octagonal section. The structure is painted white, making it easily visible to mariners from a distance.
Light and Navigation
The lighthouse remains in operation, serving as a vital aid for navigation in the North Sea. Although its original purpose was to guide ships through treacherous waters, the advent of modern technology has led to automation, ensuring the light is maintained without manual intervention. The lighthouse is equipped with an Automatic Identification System (AIS) transmitter and a radar transponder.
Accessibility and Visiting
Visitors can reach Taigh-solais Eilean Glas by boat from the nearby Isle of Scalpay or via the mainland. However, please note that public access to the lighthouse itself is not possible due to safety concerns and restricted areas.
Notable Views and Landscape
The surrounding landscape features rugged coastlines, rocky outcrops, and diverse marine life. This unique environment provides a glimpse into the region's natural beauty.
Anecdotes and Folklore
There are no recorded significant historical events or stories about former lighthouse keepers associated with Taigh-solais Eilean Glas.
Technical and Operational Details
The lighthouse features an AIS transmitter, which sends vital information to nearby vessels about its location, identity, and status. It also has a radar transponder transmitting navigation signals in the 9 GHz frequency band.
Further Information
- Northern Lighthouse Board: https://www.nlb.org.uk/lighthouses/eilean-glas/
- Wikipedia: en:Eilean Glas Lighthouse
- UKHO Nautical Charts
Details
| Name | Taigh-solais Eilean Glas |
|---|---|
| City | |
| Country | Uk |
| Coordinates | 57.8568937, -6.6419659 |
| Website | https://www.nlb.org.uk/lighthouses/eilean-glas/ |
| Year of construction | 1897 |
| Architectural style | cast-iron tower with a square base and tapering octagonal section |
| Construction material | "cast-iron" |
| Focal height | 23 |
| Tower height | 43 |
| Access description | by boat from the nearby Isle of Scalpay or via the mainland |
| Accessible | false |
| Landscape type | rocky coast |
| View description | rugged coastlines, rocky outcrops, and diverse marine life |
| AIS Radar | true |
| Automated | true |