As we come to the end of the twenty century astronomy is on an all time high with the solar phase at its highest and of course the great solar eclipse. We also have to keep in mind some developing technologies like the x-34 spacecraft and the new space station.

Why the interest in Westmeath?

Its not just Westmeath but all midland counties where skies are crystal clear on frosty nights away from the big city lights, that is when people have looked up at the magnificent starry sky and noticed strange new lights or satellites cross the sky. We may not be able to catch these in the telescopes or binoculars but when we focus on a planet like Saturn Jupiter or Venus the view is amazing.

NEWS

We were delighted with the turnout for the eclipse on the 11 of August. All our shades were sold out instantly, as were the magazines. If you have bought a magazine and subsequently become a member of Astronomy Ireland please contact me. As the eclipse was in the height of the summer it was an unusual astronomical event. If you were there on the day and have some photos of the event we can display them on this page so again contact us below. As the nights get longer now and Jupiter is rising earlier along with Saturn we will soon be organising our telescope night in St. Lomans football clubhouse. Keep an eye on this space for details of which night it is on because it depends on the weather and the position of the Moon.

This page will be updated through the weeks and will get larger in time, if you want to contact me,