Are you searching for a family getaway during the half-term break but don’t want the stress of too much travel?
Would you like an informal but educational event in a friendly and atmospheric place?
Then look no further. Rathlin Island is participating in Northern Ireland Science Festival 2023.
Join us to learn about Dark Skies and why these are important for us and for the environment.
For younger members, and the child in us all, the weekend will include an introduction to Jill Tomlinson’s captivating story of Plop, “The owl who was afraid of the dark” with readings each evening and Sunday morning and a closing craft activity.
With expert guidance, (weather permitting) the weekend will include an opportunity for a night walk to explore some of the wildlife that is not afraid of the dark, and how the stars and the planets aid their navigation. Fun and learning for all ages.
Tickets are free but please register on the Northern Ireland Science Festival website: Dark Skies and Night Owls | NI Science Festival
Download a pdf of the programme on this link: Dark skies poster (blue background)
Where to stay on Rathlin for the NI Science Festival?
The following venues are opening especially for this event
• Rathlin Glamping Pods: https://rathlinglamping.co.uk/
• Druim apartments: https://www.druim.org/
• Manor House: http://www.manorhouserathlin.com/
17th February
6.15pm: Meet at Manor House for those needing transport to West Lighthouse
7.00 pm sharp: Night Watch West Lighthouse (Manor House if weather unsuitable)
Join us at the West Lighthouse where expert Astronomer, Terry Moseley and his team will guide us through the night sky. We will experience using astronomical telescopes and share information on the best way to find specific stars, and much more.
8.30pm: Storytelling by the fire after the Night Watch (Manor House)
For younger members, and the child in us all, the weekend will include an introduction to Jill Tomlinson’s captivating story of Plop, “The owl who was afraid of the dark”.
18th February
11.00 am: Exhibition and solar telescope demo (Manor House)
Learn more about the sun and how to observe it safely, with the use of a special solar telescope!
1.00 pm – Talk by James Crymble (Manor House)
James is a Seabird Scientist with the LIFE Raft project. He will be talking about the effects light pollution has on breeding seabirds.
6.15 pm: Meet at Manor House for those needing transport to West Lighthouse
7.00 pm sharp: Night Watch at West Lighthouse (Manor House if weather is unsuitable)
8.30 pm: Storytelling by the fire (Manor House)
The story of “Plop” continues.
19th February
10.00am: Children’s storytelling and activities
The weekend concludes with arts and craft activities with Charlie Bosanquet and we hear the last chapter of Plop, The Owl Who Was Afraid of the Dark!
Please note – there is no charge for this event. However, numbers are limited so please book in advance.
You can register your interest at https://nisciencefestival.com/events/dark-skies-and-night-owls or you can get in touch with Tania on 07845 209653 or Rauri on 07476 329257.