Irish Astronomy Week is an exciting and free initiative dedicated to promoting astronomy and space science across Ireland. It’s a cross-border event and an opportunity for people of all ages and all walks of life to explore the wonders of the universe together to learn about the how the contributions of Irish astronomers are continuing our rich history of astronomy, both through its astronomers and significant astronomical sites. It’s a week filled with free events, library talks, workshops, stargazing sessions, dark sky walks, planetarium shows and exhibitions, observatories, schools, libraries, and science centres throughout Ireland.
During Irish Astronomy Week, you’ll typically find: Public talks by prominent astronomers and astrophysicists, covering topics like black holes, planets, and stars. Stargazing sessions with telescopes set up for public use to view the beautiful March conjunction of planets and Moon hosted by local astronomy clubs or observatories. Workshops and activities in libraries aimed at children and families, with fun and educational activities related to space. Planetarium shows and virtual reality experiences to help people explore space in immersive ways.
Outreach events in schools to inspire students about careers in space science and technology. Irish Astronomy Week provides an opportunity for both amateur astronomers and the public to explore astronomy and to develop a greater appreciation for the night sky.
We appreciate the help and support from Libraries Ireland, the Irish Federation of Astronomical Societies (IFAS) KTEC Telescopes, Science centres such as Dunsink Observatory, Armagh Planetarium, OM Observatory and Dark Sky Park, Mayo and Kerry Dark Sky Groups and the various astronomy clubs throughout the 32 counties.
All our events are free of charge unless stated otherwise, some will require booking through Eventbrite and the links will be included on this website closer to the time. Many of our speakers are garda vetted and we ask everyone to read our Child Protection Policy. Through our 2023 and 2024 events we have raised astronomical awareness nationwide with over 5000 people attending the many events, we hope to continue this tradition into 2025.
The theme for this year is entitled “Our place amongst the Stars” and evokes a profound contemplation of humanity’s position in the vast expanse of the universe. It touches on themes of exploration, identity, and the cosmic perspective that has fascinated humans for millennia and prompts us to consider what it means to be human in such a vast and ancient universe. Are we unique? Are we alone? These questions drive much of our scientific exploration, from the search for extraterrestrial life to the study of exoplanets. Contemplating our place amongst the stars can inspire a sense of unity is a reminder of both our smallness and our significance.
Finally we are a voluntary group of amateur astronomers in the West of Ireland, we are supported by the Irish Federation of Astronomical Societies and recieve no goverment funding, We have set up a Go Fund Me page to cover the cost of postage to the 80 events nationwide and to cover the annual fee and maintenance of our website to the value of €700. This should ensure we can cover our costs into 2026 and keep this annual event going. Thank You
Ronan Newman
National Coordinator
Irish Astronomy Week
