Former NASA Astronaut Brings Space Week to Cork and Munster
Former NASA astronaut Dan Tani brings Space Week to Cork, Kerry and Limerick this week. Free and ticketed events until 10 Oct.
Space Week Ireland 2025 launched this weekend with a sold-out family festival at Cork School of Music, where former NASA astronaut Dan Tani shared captivating stories of life aboard the International Space Station. The week-long celebration of space science continues today with events across Cork, Kerry, and Limerick, offering students and families the chance to explore the theme "Living in Space" through hands-on workshops and expert talks.
Saturday's opening event at Cork School of Music drew enthusiastic crowds as Dan Tani recounted his experiences living and working in orbit. Dr Lisa McNamee discussed the hazards of space living, whilst Dr Josh Reynolds explored the effects of high-energy particles on human health. Families queued to ask questions and engage with interactive science displays following the presentations.
Coordinated by MTU Blackrock Castle Observatory, the nationwide programme runs until 10 October and features a roadtrip visiting venues across the southern region. The initiative aims to spark curiosity about space exploration and inspire Ireland's next generation of scientists and engineers.
Events Taking Place Today
This morning, Dan Tani and Dr Niall Smith, Head of Research at MTU and Head of BCO, are delivering a special primary school session at Tralee Library in County Kerry from 10:00 to 13:30. This evening, a public event takes place at the University of Limerick at 7:00pm, hosted with the UL Rocketry Society.
Tomorrow, Tuesday 7 October, Mary Immaculate College in Limerick hosts morning school sessions followed by a lunchtime public talk from 1:10pm to 1:55pm on living in space.
Nationwide Activities Throughout the Week
Space enthusiasts across Ireland can participate in numerous events running all week. The NASA Space Apps Hackathon takes place in Athlone, whilst Galway Atlantaquaria features space-themed activities. Maynooth University hosts "The Stars and the Universe Beyond", a stargazing evening for astronomy fans.
In Kilkenny, the Medieval Mile Museum presents "Museum in Space" from Tuesday 7 October to Friday 10 October, featuring a space live screen, Lego Space Hunt, and daily Space Stories at 9:30am. The National Reptile Zoo in Kilkenny offers Space and Alligators school sessions throughout the week.
On Wednesday 8 October from 8:00pm to 10:00pm, the South East Astronomy Club invites the public to join a Moon and Saturn observing watch at Kingsmeadow Green, Old Cork Road, Waterford.
Many events are free, whilst others require tickets available locally. The complete programme can be found at spaceweek.ie/events.
Virtual Access Available
Those unable to attend events in person can join the Space Week Roadtrip virtually via the BCO YouTube channel and explore Space Week TV at spaceweek.ie/tv.
Blackrock Castle Observatory in Cork remains open year-round for talks and skywatching, serving as Ireland's gateway to space science and exploration.
To register a Space Week Ireland event, visit spaceweek.ie/add/. For events near you, check spaceweek.ie/events/.
Space Week Ireland is the nation's annual celebration of space science and exploration, coinciding with World Space Week. The programme is brought to you by MTU Blackrock Castle Observatory with support from Research Ireland and ESERO Ireland.
