The Armagh Observatory and Planetarium brings a special show of the sky at night to Birr Castle in a giant inflatable igloo.
John Flynn from the planetarium in Armagh demonstrates how the portable star lab works to a group of school children on a visit. He explains the importance that Birr Castle has played in the history of astronomy.
During the last century, scientists from all over the world came to Birr Castle to make use of the unique telescope designed and built by the 3rd Earl of Rosse.
For many years, the telescope was the biggest in the world. Still today, the remains of the giant telescope are impressive.
Birr Castle, home of the Earl of Rosse, occupies a unique position in the history of Irish astronomy.
Birr is back in the astronomy limelight with Armagh Planetarium's 'Star Lab'.
It's a huge inflatable igloo, the inside of which is transformed into a representation of the sky at night by means of special projectors.
Star Lab runs alongside an exhibition illustrating the contributions made by the Parson's family to astronomy, ship building and engineering throughout the last century.
This is all part of a plan to develop Birr Castle Estate as a tourist attraction. The Earl of Rosse says that Birr Castle is open year round to visitors and the exhibition offers a new dimension of specific interest to children.
It's a very exciting first for Ireland and for Birr.
The Earl of Rosse also says that there are plans for a scientific museum on the Birr site to celebrate Ireland's wide scientific heritage.
An RTÉ News report broadcast on 15 April 1982. The reporter is Michael Walsh.
