MUSIC LOVERS, movie buffs and those who simply want to watch the night sky are in for a treat in Cork over the next fortnight as Blackrock Castle Observatory, operated by Cork Institute of Technology, hosts a series of events to mark Galileo’s pioneering astronomical work as well as the Cork Jazz Festival and Halloween.
The fun kicks off this coming Friday when the observatory participates in the Galilean Nights project, part of the International Year of Astronomy 2009, to mark the 400th anniversary of the Italian scientist’s telescopic observations which revolutionised humankind’s view of the universe.
Clair McSweeney, facilities manager at the observatory, which is housed in a 16th-century castle, said Galilean Nights will see amateur and professional astronomers, enthusiasts and the public taking to the streets around the world and pointing their telescopes to the wonders that Italian astronomer Galileo observed four centuries ago.
“The focus for Galilean Nights will be the objects that Galileo observed, including Jupiter and the Moon which will be well positioned in the night sky for observing,” said Ms McSweeney, adding that observation is dependent on a clear sky.
To coincide with the Cork Guinness Jazz Festival, Cork swing trio, the Stargazers, will perform at the Trattoria restaurant at the observatory on Saturday 24th and Sunday 25th.
People will be able to enjoy a guided laser-pointed show with professional astronomers from the observatory and members of the Cork Astronomy Club from 8-11pm to the sounds of the Stargazers, Ms McSweeney said.
A week later, to mark Halloween, the observatory is hosting the first in its “Movies by Moonlight” series with a screening of the 1922 silent classic vampire film Nosferatu by German expressionist director FW Murneau.
“Nosferatu is an eerie retelling of Bram Stoker’s story of Dracula which is said to be partially inspired by Bram Stoker’s visit to the castle in the late 19th century, and Nosferatu is a fitting choice for the Halloween premiere of this series of movies in the castle,” said Ms McSweeney. The movie will be followed by a vampire costume ball with the proceeds going to the Blood Transfusion Service.
For further information on all events go to www.bco.ie