The latest 3D technology as well as glimpses into the past and the chance to don uniforms worn during World War 1 are just some of the features of this year's Armagh Heritage Day organised by the Armagh Visitor Education Committee (AVEC). It will be held on Wednesday, 20th May in the Rotunda Theatre at St Patrick's Trian. The theme of the Heritage Day is the city's contribution to education and learning down through the ages.
Armagh man, Professor Peter Finn, who received his early education at the Christian Brothers Primary and Grammar schools at Greenpark will give the keynote lecture. Professor Finn, now Principal of St Mary's University College, Belfast, will provide a historical overview of the role that education has played in the development of the city and its peoples. He will explore the nature of learning in human development and emphasise the distinctiveness that emerges from historical experience in a unique geographical place.
Something totally different but no doubt equally fascinating will be the main afternoon talk "The Universe: Yours to discover" to be given by Robert Hill, manager of the Northern Ireland Space Office, based at the Armagh Planetarium and a member of the International Astronomical Union Executive Committee Working Group for International year of Astronomy 2009. He will use the latest 3D technology and vivid imagery in his presentation which will act as a guide to some of the spectacular natural wonders of the universe.
Robert has spearheaded the campaign to bring astronomy and space science topics to pupils through the newly revised curriculum in the province. In his previous post as Business Manager and Science Communicator for Armagh Planetarium, he designed and created the 'From Earth to the Heavens' exhibition. He founded the Astrogazers Ireland Astronomy schools network, working with teachers to gain confidence in using astronomy resources for the classroom.
For more info go to the Armagh Observatory's press release about this event.