1. Star-B-Q 2010 - Did We Really Land on the Moon?

We are delighted to announce that Dr Martin Hendry of the University of Glasgow will be this years keynote speaker, giving a talk entitled "Did We Really Land on the Moon?", where he will investigate a variety of moon landing hoax claims!

Join us at Astronomy Ireland's annual Star-B-Q on September 4th, where Dr. Hendry, the keynote speaker, will attempt to address some of the more popular Moon-landing myths, like why the flag was fluttering if there was no atmosphere on the Moon, or why the shadows of the astronauts don't add up. The audio-visual presentation is promised to both inspire and enlighten audience of all ages. Dr Martin Hendry is Senior Lecturer and Director of Learning and Teaching in the School of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Glasgow and is the first speaker announced for the Star-B-Q.

At this Star-B-Q, which promises to be our biggest ever, guests will be treated to a top-quality barbecue cooked by a Michelin chef, before enjoying a series of special intriguing talks covering all aspects of astronomy and space, an array of telescopes to look through, junior section for children, evening entertainment, and Astronomy Ireland Shop displays. All of this is included in the price of your ticket.

For more information about Star-B-Q 2010 click HERE or call us on (01) 847 0777.

To read a report and see pictures from last year's Star-B-Q click HERE.

2. Celestial Fireworks Display Continues until Friday

Astronomy Ireland would like to thank everyone who submitted reports for our Nationwide Meteor Watch over the last week. Astronomy Ireland is urging everyone in Ireland to continue to watch the skies this week for our National Meteor Watch and count the huge numbers of shooting stars they will see as the best meteor shower of the year reaches the end of its activity.

The Perseids have been known to produce sensational fireballs which can light up the entire night sky.

To take part in Astronomy Ireland's Nationwide Meteor Watch, click here to find details and a map of the sky. Remember, no special equipment is needed, and this is a great way to get friends and family to do some astronomy with you! Simply count the number of meteors you see every 15 minutes (starting on the hour, or quarter past), and email your report along with your name and location to meteor@astronomy.ie.