Sir Patrick Moore has claimed the longevity of his The Sky at Night programme is down to its cheapness.

Stars from the world of astronomy and science gathered at the 88-yearold’s Sussex home for the broadcast of the 700th episode.

Guests included the Astronomer Royal Lord Martin Rees, the former pop star, TV presenter and physicist Professor Brian Cox and Queen guitarist and astrophysicist Brian May. Astronomy enthusiast and impressionist Jon Culshaw impersonated a young Sir Patrick, complete with trademark monocle and unique style of delivery in a mock interview with himself.

Sir Patrick said: “It was a fascinating show because the viewers’ questions were so interesting. I think the reason the show has carried on for so very long is because it’s cheap – it’s filmed here at my house because I cannot go anywhere because of my arthritis. I can’t even go into my observatory anymore.”

Sir Patrick’s co-presenter, astrophysicist Dr Chris Lintott, said: “One of the main reasons the programme has reached its 700th episiode is, of course, Patrick himself.

“When he speaks, people listen because they’re confident they will understand his explanations, whether he’s talking about the moon or black holes.”

The show has been broadcast live since 1957. Famous incidents include Sir Patrick swallowing a fly live on air. Read a full-length interview with Sir Patrick Moore in the April issue of Sussex Society magazine, which will appear in more than 400 outlets across Sussex from March 28.