Dunsink Observatory, opened in 1785, was the first building in Ireland specifically constructed for scientific research. Ireland’s greatest mathematician/scientist, William Rowan Hamilton, lived and worked here.
Originally part of Trinity College Dublin, it was purchased by the state in 1947 when the School of Cosmic Physics was established (as part of the Dublin Institute for Advanced Studies).
The Observatory is used nowadays mainly for public outreach, workshops/conferences, and as visitor accommodation. Rooms can also be hired by external parties.
Open Nights are held on the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of each month during the winter months (October-March). Weather permitting, visitors can view celestial objects through the historic Grubb Telescope. There are also audio-visual presentations, lectures on a wide variety of topics in astronomy, and question and answer sessions. Open nights are free of charge.
From time to time Dunsink Observatory holds a special evening for parents and children who would like to meet a real astronomer and explore the night sky together. This family event begins at 7.30 pm with a short presentation, followed by live stargazing (weather permitting) and a question and answer session.
Most events at Dunsink have been disrupted by Covid so little activity can be expected before autumn 2022.
School/College trips to Dunsink Observatory can be arranged if booked beforehand. These trips can be organised for day or evening time.
Dunsink Observatory, Castleknock, Dublin 15.
Re Open Nights, phone Hilary O’Donnell at 087-6294966 or email hod@cp.dias.ie
For general queries, phone 01 4406656. Email dunsink@dias.ie.
The “Race to Space” is a fully immersive escape room experience, a collaboration between DIAS Dunsink Observatory and Adventure Rooms Dublin.
Groups of 2-4 people are welcome to play. Open to age 10+ if accompanied by a parent/guardian. Players under 18 must attend with a parent/guardian. Each game has a 1 hour time slot.
Email enquiries – escaperoomdunsink@dias.ie.
Website – www.dunsink.dias.ie/escaperoom/