Armagh Planetarium is an informative complex offering an otherworldly look at the universe. It offers a variety of multimedia shows that explain our planet, the stars and myths and facts surrounding space. Teach your kids about the mysteries of the universe at this hands-on, compelling site.
Wander through the display areas and interact with the screens to learn more about the cosmos. Enter the Mars room to find out about the Red Planet. Inspect the nickel iron meteorite that is one of the largest in Ireland and dates back 4.5 billion years.
Admire the scale models of the probes and satellites in orbit around Earth, including such icons as the International Space Station and the Hubble Space Telescope. Among the highlights is the Digital Theatre, which plays films that take you on a tour of the night sky and the constellations. Enjoy the theater’s state-of-the-art lighting and sound systems.
Bring the kids to the Astropark and walk along the scale model of the universe. Marvel at the enormous distances between the planets in our solar system and venture farther into the Milky Way.
Peruse the various souvenirs and items in the gift shop. Buy freeze-dried astronaut ice cream for the whole family to enjoy. Next door is the Armagh Observatory, which has outdoor scale models, including a human orrery, which depicts the position in space of orbiting bodies.
The complex opens Monday through Saturday from morning until late afternoon. There is a fee for the shows with discounts for kids. Some shows are free, but require prebooking.
Armagh Planetarium is in the central part of town. Ride a bus to the Royal School stop and walk a short distance to get here. See nearby attractions, such as the Market Place Theatre and Arts Centre, St. Patrick’s Catholic Cathedral and St. Patrick’s Church of Ireland Cathedral.
