CIT Blackrock Castle Observatory is used by CIT Research staff to explore topics such as pulsars, exoplanets and near-earth objects. It is an award winning Observatory and Science Centre, housed in an iconic 16th Century Castle. In addition to astronomy research, the Observatory seeks to improve science literacy, fostering interest in science, engineering and technology through the medium of astronomy.
The whole team is passionate about bringing the night sky closer to the people of Cork and beyond. Through their activities and commitment, they want to inspire people of all ages and from all walks of life to experience the wonder of science. The Blackrock Castle Observatory’s website provides a number of fun and relaxing ways to get outside and engage with the night sky. They are also very family friendly so a great way for stressed parents to engage bored kids.
Our Daily Astro Challenge:
Weekdays at 12.30pm
With this program we will slowly build your familiarity with the night sky through a series of increasingly complex challenges. These short, 2 minute episodes build on what you have learned in earlier sessions to take you from a novice to a real amateur astronomer in no time! These challenges have already proved to be immensely successful. You can view the back catalogue, and find new challenges every weekday. Check it out here.
Planetarium at Home
Fridays from 4pm
We are particularly excited to be bringing our planetarium experience to a remote learning platform. Guided planetarium shows are at the heart of the BCO visitor experience and we are sure you will enjoy watching these weekly shows as much as we enjoy making them. These are a perfect family weekend activity, with two short episodes dropping every Friday evening. These videos are also supplemented with ESERO Ireland Resources for those who want to go one step further with the learning experience. Check them out here.
