All About Cork: Astronaut will join in the fun at Castle for Space Week

Blackrock Castle Observatory will take centre stage for Space Week 2024, which returns from October 4 to 10.

This year’s festival is set to be even more out of this world, with Astronaut Steve Swanson joining the celebrations on a nationwide road trip, bringing the cosmos to communities across the country.

Space Week Ireland is part of the global annual celebration of space, designed to promote space science, technology, and exploration.

Coordinated by MTU Blackrock Castle Observatory, the festival aims to inspire the next generation of space enthusiasts, foster collaboration within the aerospace community, and showcase Ireland's growing footprint in the global space industry.

Ireland ranks second per capita for hosting Space Week events globally, with Irish space enthusiasts showing unparalleled interest.

Rob O’ Sullivan, National Outreach Coordinator for Space Week Ireland explained: “There’s something in Irish culture that draws us to the stars.

“With a rich history of contributing to space science—including having the world’s largest telescope for 70 years—it’s no surprise we embrace Space Week so enthusiastically.

“Today, Irish scientists continue to contribute to cutting edge research at organisations such as the European Space Agency and European Southern Observatory, while Irish companies such as Réaltra Space Systems Engineering and Enbio are taking advantage of the incredible opportunities presented by the growing global space industry.” 

Astronaut Steve Swanson will join the MTU Blackrock Castle Observatory team on a road trip, as they explore the wonders of the cosmos and the Emerald Isle.

The road trip kicks off at MTU Blackrock Castle Observatory on October 4 and continues to Cork, Galway, Offaly, and Dublin.

You can follow the journey virtually on the Blackrock Castle Observatory YouTube channel—subscribe in advance to receive livestream notifications from each location.

Mahon laud frontline crews

Mahon Point Shopping Centre hosted a special celebration to mark National Services Day this month.

In a statement, management said: “A big thank you to everyone who joined us for National Services Day at Mahon Point.

“We were thrilled to showcase an incredible line-up of vehicles from over 20 services, giving the community a fantastic opportunity to meet the brave crews who work tirelessly on the frontline.

“Special thanks to Stephen O’Flaherty from the HSE for organising such an amazing event!”

Deputy Lord Mayor, Councillor Honore Kamegni was among those in attendance and said: “Whether through military service, volunteering, or supporting local initiatives, each act of service is a testament to the incredible spirit of unity and strengthens our nation’s fabric.

“Your efforts are deeply appreciated — thank you all!”

Big turnout for cycle bus

Beaumont Girls National School has highlighted the success of its cycle bus after a “super turnout” for the first one of this academic year.

The school, along with parents and volunteers, organises a cycle bus to encourage students to cycle to school, leaving the car at home, and promoting sustainable and environmentally friendly habits.

In a statement, Beaumont GNS said:

“We had a super turnout for our first cycle bus of the year. Well done everyone. Huge thanks to our travel committee for all their hard work.”

Local youth band seeking new members

The Mahon Community Concert Band is seeking new members to join the ranks.

The musical group is open to new members between the ages of nine and 18.

Music Generation Cork City issued a call for new members for the Mahon band in recent days.

“Do you want to be part of a fun local band?” they asked. “Do you play a brass, wind or percussion instrument?

“Come join a junior/youth band in your community. Make friends and make music.”

The organisation also highlighted the opportunity for members to feature in regular performances throughout the year.

The Mahon Community Concert Band plays on Wednesdays at Nagle Community College, in partnership with the Cork Academy of Music.

For more information or to get involved, contact Mary at 0872591365 or email mahonhubadmin@corkacademyofmusic.ie.

Blackrock litter pick-up

The Blackrock clean-up group was out and about in recent weeks in a bid to ensure local coastal areas are litter-free.

Nine volunteers from the local group gave up their time on Sunday, September 15 to take part in a clean-up that resulted in 13 bags of litter being collected.

In a statement, the group said: “Generally, we found the areas covered were quite clean, but Dutchman’s Cove was very heavily littered. This is mainly due to litter floating down from the city with a small amount of dumping over the wall too. As always, thank you to the team in Cork City Council for disposing of the bags we collect,” they added.

“We enjoyed coffee afterwards at the Castle Cafe Cork, so a big thank you to all the staff of the café for looking after us.

“We look forward to our next clean-up on Saturday, October 12, and hope to see you then.”

Secondary school open night

Ursuline College Blackrock is hosting its open evening tonight at 7pm.

In a statement, the local school said: “We hope to see you all there.”

Attendees are asked to register for the event on Eventbrite before attending.

3D printers at Nagle

Nagle Community College has unveiled two state of the art 3D printers.

In a statement, the local school said the new additions will allow students to explore their creativity in an eco-friendly way.

“We are delighted to announce the launch of two brand new, state of the art 3D printers that have been installed in our wood technology and engineering practical rooms,” school management said.

“These amazing pieces of technology use polylactic acid (PLA) filament which is a recyclable, natural thermoplastic polyester that is derived from renewable resources such as corn starch or sugar cane.

“So the printers are also eco-friendly and sustainable. Students, get ready to unleash your imagination and turn your digital designs into tangible objects,” the school added.

Have Mahon news to share? Contact darraghberminghamecho@gmail.com.