Armagh Planetarium
Ever wondered how galaxies are formed or why astronauts are sent into space? If so, then the Armagh Planetarium is the place to go. A delightful and magical experience for all the family, the planetarium and its staff are dedicated in educating the public about the vast space above us, which very little is known about. With over 1.65 million visitors in total, the Armagh Planetarium is a very popular experience and is proud to have the status of the longest serving planetarium in the United Kingdom.
Without the perseverance and dedication of a man by the name of Eric Lindsay the Armagh Planetarium would not even exist today. Born near Portadown, Lindsay was the director of the Armagh Observatory from late 1937 until 1974. He was well respected within the astronomical work field in Ireland and in the USA. Surprised at the public’s interest in astronomy, Lindsay decided to put plans together for a planetarium in conjunction with the observatory which had a high demand for tours with the public. It wasn’t until 1968 when the completed planetarium was opened by the then Northern Ireland Prime Minister Terence O’Neill. The planetarium was an immediate hit, gathering 50,000 visitors each year and winning numerous visitor attraction awards. Today the planetarium is a host to numerous shows covering topics such as rockets, dinosaurs, magnetism and many more. With over 100,000 visitors since 2001, it has been completely refurbished and boasts a comfortable and air condition Digital Theatre which can hold up to 94 people.
The Armagh Planetarium boasts many proud achievement’s, however the most important is that it was the first planetarium in the world to show moving images by projecting video on the dome an action which has been since shared by many other planetariums around the world. With dedicated and helpful staff, the Armagh Planetarium is one of the most popular attractions, not just in Armagh but in the North of Ireland, today. Guaranteed to mesmerise the youngest of children and educated the oldest of adults, the Armagh Planetarium is one place not miss out on!