Armagh Observatory and Planetarium, the world renowned astronomical research centre, has unveiled a new Climate Exhibition.
Inspired by the UN Climate Change Conference (COP26), the permanent display was created by the organisation to raise awareness of climate change.
Currently situated onsite in The Copernicus Hall, the mobile exhibit explores three key themes – Land, Water and Air. It examines the effects of climate change on each of these areas, looking at its impact on organisms such as marine and plant life.
The exhibition also shows how the global eradication of aerosol chlorofluorocarbon propellants (CFCs) is helping to repair the ozone. Visitors can engage with an interactive display, which depicts how Belfast might look in the future, should the sea level rise, whilst another exhibit showcases which industries possess the largest carbon footprint.
Heather Alexander, Senior Education Officer at Armagh Observatory and Planetarium, said: “We are delighted to welcome visitors to our new climate exhibition.
“At Armagh Observatory and Planetarium, we have a unique insight into climate change through our weather records and our ability to study both weather and climate from space. We are passionate about making this information accessible to the public and harnessing it to help fight climate change.
“We were inspired to create the exhibition by the well-received presentation of our dome show “Our Place in the Cosmos”, at last year’s COP26 conference. The specially composed piece by our Director, Professor Michael Burton, examined how the fragile planet Earth resides in our Galaxy, and illustrated what would happen to the Earth’s continents should the sea level rise. We hope to continue to communicate these important messages via our climate exhibition.”
Armagh Observatory and Planetarium is sited in a heritage environment with a rich scientific history. The organisation delivers internationally recognised research in astronomy and related sciences and vibrant educational and outreach programmes for all ages.
Established in 1790 by Archbishop Richard Robinson, the Armagh Observatory is the oldest scientific institution in Northern Ireland and the longest continuously operating astronomical research institute in the United Kingdom and Ireland.
Dr Eric Lindsay founded the Armagh Planetarium in 1968. The oldest operating Planetarium in the UK and Ireland, it celebrated 50 years as Northern Ireland’s public face of space and astronomy in May 2018.
The Climate Exhibition can be viewed from 2pm onwards, from Tuesday to Sunday during school term time. During half term, school holidays and bank holidays, it can be viewed from 10am, from Monday to Sunday. Please visit the website for a list of all opening times.
Access to the Climate Exhibition is included with tickets purchased for entry to the Planetarium. To purchase tickets or find out more information about the Armagh Observatory and Planetarium, visit: www.armagh.space
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