The observatory at Blackrock Castle is used for both research and outreach. It integrates the research and science into a form which allows everyone to have a look at the universe around them from a different viewpoint.

The observatory is used by the research team to look at, capture and analyse exotic astronomical objects of such power and size that the human brain struggles to fathom. The observatory is also used to give everyone a glimpse of the heavens above, and all the beauty and wonder that it contains. By looking through telescopes or by viewing images captured by the BCO team we can all see the wonders of the solar system and beyond.

Can I see the telescope?

The 16” Meade reflector telescope on the rooftop at Blackrock Castle is a research instrument.

A guided tour is available daily at 15.30 to the telescope tower or research tower. The tour is included in the ticket price and lasts 25 minutes. The tour is limited to 15 visitors. There are 86 spiraling steps to the telescope rooftop and 20 wider steps to the roof at BCO Research Labs. There are 16 steps from the ground floor down to the base of the Castle which is a National Monument and the original structure of the 16th century fortress. Please know your accessibility and fitness levels before joining the tour.

Guided evening astronomy sessions in association with the Cork Astronomy Club take place monthly from September to May in the courtyard at our open night First Fridays at the Castle.

We also operate a monthly remote astronomy schools project Web of Stars with the Chabot Space & Science Center in Oakland California.

Telescope models are displayed in the exhibit Cosmos at the Castle.