Did you know? Autumn is an ideal time to see the Northern Lights in Ireland! To mark the occasion, a brand new observation center will open its doors in Ireland. Called “The OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory”, this brand-new facility in County Tyrone, Northern Ireland, will allow the public to enjoy a dark sky, free of human light, and observe the many stars and northern lights of the Irish sky!
The OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory is located in the foothills of County Tyrone’s Sperrin Mountains, in Davagh Forest. Its opening, scheduled for October 17, has already created a buzz among Irish people and travelers alike. This observation site is ideal for enjoying a sky free of extraneous light.
And the venue has pulled out all the stops: visitors will be able to enjoy a completely immersive stargazing experience, using super-powerful telescopes and other cutting-edge technological tools. There’s plenty for everyone to do, from admiring the Northern Lights to exploring the wonders of the Milky Way, and discovering the intricacies of our solar system!
Better still, the park will offer visitors the chance to witness the birth of a star by donning a virtual reality headset.
This is a unique project in a truly special location, with an ancient landscape and amazing archaeology, (let’s not forget the stone circles of Beaghmore which are considered by some to be the first stargazing observatory on this Earth), all under the darkest of skies with an incomparable view of the galaxy. Mid-Ulster Council Chairman Councillor Cathal Mallaghan said.
The site is due to open on October 17, to coincide with the new moon. The spot should attract enthusiasts and the curious alike. Expect to pay £5 per adult and £3 per child.
A word of warning, however: it’s best to go when the sky is clear.
Finally, you’ll need to be patient if you’re looking for a real aurora borealis. Although they are a regular sight in Ireland, they are nevertheless quite rare, and usually show up without warning. You’ll need to consult the scientific reports regularly, and visit the site regularly for a chance to see one.
Find out more here: The OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory.
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