Armagh Observatory and Planetarium has unveiled a new interactive climate exhibition showing how Belfast might look in the future as a result of rising sea levels.
The permanent exhibit was inspired by its involvement in the UN Climate Change Conference, COP26, in Glasgow last year and its launch comes ahead of the 27th conference of the parties in Egypt next month.
Armagh Observatory was established in 1790 by Archbishop Richard Robinson. It is the oldest scientific institution in Northern Ireland and the longest continuously operating astronomical research institute in the United Kingdom and Ireland while Dr Eric Lindsay founded the Armagh Planetarium onsite in 1968.
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The climate crisis is caused by rising carbon and methane levels in the atmosphere which stop heat escaping into space, warming the world, its seas, impacting life on Earth and changing our weather systems, largely through burning fossil fuels.
Planetarium visitors can now learn about the impact the climate crisis is having on marine and plant life and how when global powers worked together to eradicate aerosol chlorofluorocarbon propellants (CFCs) it helped repair holes in the ozone layer.
It also shows which industries now have the biggest carbon footprint and explores three key themes - land, water and air.
Heather Alexander, Senior Education Officer at Armagh Observatory and Planetarium, said: "At Armagh Observatory and Planetarium, we have a unique insight into climate change through our weather records and our ability to study both weather and climate from space.
"We are passionate about making this information accessible to the public and harnessing it to help fight climate change.
"We were inspired to create the exhibition by the well-received presentation of our dome show 'Our Place in the Cosmos', at last year’s COP26 conference.
"The specially composed piece by our Director, Professor Michael Burton, examined how the fragile planet Earth resides in our Galaxy, and illustrated what would happen to the Earth’s continents should the sea level rise. We hope to continue to communicate these important messages via our climate exhibition."
Armagh Observatory and Planetarium is sited in a heritage environment with a rich scientific history. The organisation delivers internationally recognised research in astronomy and related sciences and vibrant educational and outreach programmes for all ages.
The exhibition is based at the site's Copernicus Hall. It can be viewed from 2pm onwards, from Tuesday to Sunday during school term time. During half term, school holidays and bank holidays, it can be viewed from 10am, from Monday to Sunday.
Access to the Climate Exhibition is included with tickets purchased for entry to the Planetarium. To purchase tickets or find out more information about the Armagh Observatory and Planetarium, visit: www.armagh.space
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