Spring Sale DVD Membership Shop 1. Public Lecture “Solar Storms and Northern Lights: Observing the Sun from Ireland” Despite being our ultimate energy source on Earth, the Sun can have more sinister effects due to its solar flares. While these solar storms can produce spectacular auroral displays, they can sometimes cause dropouts in telecommunications systems, failures of satellites, interruptions in electrical power supply networks, and errors in GPS signals. At Astronomy Ireland's Public Lecture on March 12th, Dr Peter Gallagher will describe the source of solar storms, how these can effect the technologies that we rely on as part of our every-day lives, and how Irish scientists are using cutting-edge scientific instruments, such as the new Europe-wide LOFAR radio telescope, to better forecast the effects of solar storms on Earth. This lecture will take place at 8pm on Monday, March 12th, in Trinity College Dublin. A social reception will take place after the lecture in the nearby Lombard Inn where lecture attendees can meet Dr Gallagher and other astronomy enthusiasts. Details of the March Lecture and tickets for it be found at www.astronomy.ie or by calling (01) 890 11 11. BOOK TICKETS ORDER DVD 2. Employment Opportunity Astronomy Ireland's Education Programme is growing, and we are seeking a new member for the team. This is primarily a telesales position, and would be ideal for a person who is energetic, enthusiastic, and target-driven, with previous experience in the area. Download a job specification HERE for further details. Please direct queries to careers@astronomy.ie 3. Astronomy Ireland Transit of Venus Trip to Beijing If you miss this year's Transit of Venus across the sun on June 6th you'll have a long wait for the next one... 105 years to be exact. That’s why Astronomy Ireland hopes to maximise the viewing time for this year's event by arranging a group tour to Beijing where it should be visible for almost seven hours. When Venus passes directly between the earth and the Sun, the distant planet is seen as a small dot gliding slowly across the face of the sun. Historically, this rare alignment is how we measured the size of our Solar System. Since this will be the last transit of Venus to occur in our lifetime Astronomy Ireland, in association with Project Travel, has put together a six night tour to the city of Beijing. As well as the chance of seeing the Transit, you will also get to experience the amazing history and culture of this stunning city with a visit to Beijing’s Ancient Observatory plus tours to The Forbidden City, The Great Wall of China and the Summer Palace. The six day fully guided tour, which is also open to non-members of Astronomy Ireland, is from June 3rd to 9th and must be booked by 4th April. The €1795 pp sharing price (single supplement €325) includes return flights from Dublin, B&B accommodation in a 4* hotel within walking distance of The Forbidden City and central shopping districts, all transfers and tours in China including an English speaking guide, entry fees as well as some meals and entertainment. Further details and booking forms are available on www.astronomy.ie/beijing, or by calling Project Travel on (01) 210 8391. Astronomy Ireland The world's most popular Astronomy Club www.astronomy.ie ( subscribe / unsubscribe )