Events around Northern Ireland

Armagh Planetarium

25th-29th August 9pm-11pm at the Planetarium, Armagh: FREE public Mars viewing (weather permitting 02837 524724). If the weather does not permit there will be alternative public presentations relating to Mars and current exploration of the planet in the Hall of Astronomy.
15th July-29th August at the Planetarium: Europe in space exhibition in conjunction with ESA "Exploring the New Frontier" with large scale replicas including the ISS, Ariane 5, Envisat and Mars Express.

FEEDBACK: The planetarium organised a week of highly successful telescope viewing evenings. Over 650 people visited over the 4 day period and due to popular demand viewing continued through until 2am! While visitors waited for Mars to rise high enough in the sky they were treated to views of double stars and various nebulae. When Mars was visible there were views of the Southern polar cap and the dark markings. Bad weather prevented viewing on only one of the four evenings

East Antrim Astronomical Society

"Marswatch" Star Party (Date and time to be arranged). For further details email or phone John McConnell (028 9261 9936)

FEEDBACK
A great night on Monday even though somewhat cloudy. This photograph shows a very bright fireball being pointed out (no picture of the actual fireball unfortunately) which, made up for the lack of views of Mars.

An even better night was had on Wednesday with many passing visitors that were able to view through the range of telescopes and binoculars on offer. The closest approach of Mars was remarkable with the polar caps and surface details visible even with modest equipment.

There were some great views of Mars. This was taken by Mark & Nigel Stronge Astrophotography (see www.eaas.co.uk) with a Meade 10inch LX-200 and a Minolta Dimage 7.