Dublin Institute for Advanced Studies (DIAS) Dunsink Observatory today announced the launch of Mirrors to the Sky a special publication celebrating Space Crafts, a two year STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts & Maths) initiative that brought together DIAS scientists, artists and local primary schools in Dublin 15 to re-imagine how children engage with space science through creativity.

Developed at DIAS Dunsink Observatory, Space Crafts was funded through the Research Ireland Discover Programme with support from ESERO Ireland, Fingal County Council Arts Office and Superprojects. The project was delivered to 5th and 6th class students from DEIS primary schools in the local area over two years by the Dunsink team in collaboration with three artists, Aileen Murphy, Julia MacConville and Mary Jo Gilligan along with curator Rayne Booth from Superprojects. 

Through a series of engaging workshops at the Observatory, children from eight primary schools in the locality were introduced to the work of the astrophysics team in DIAS and the interconnected fields of space science and art.

The launch today in DIAS Dunsink Observatory, which was opened by Eucharia Meehan CEO and Registrar of DIAS, celebrates the achievements of the project to date and the creativity of the children involved.

Mirrors to the Sky provides insight into the creative inquiry process and the beautiful artworks created by the children. Copies will be disseminated to schools and libraries across Dublin 15. The programme has strengthened links between DIAS Dunsink Observatory, local DEIS primary schools, Fingal Arts Office and contemporary art practice. The intention is to continue this type of engagement with schools through scheduled one-day visits to the Observatory site over the next year.

Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, James Lawless T.D said: “Initiatives such as Space Crafts empower children to see science as something they can actively participate in, not just read about. Through practical and engaging experiences, the programme has helped more young people across the D15 area see themselves reflected in science and research. I commend everyone involved, particularly the students, whose creativity shines throughout Mirrors to the Sky.”

Speaking about the project Sadhbh Leahy, Education and Public Engagement Officer with DIAS Dunsink Observatory said: “The project aims to bring space science to life in a way that is fun, creative and memorable. We hope it helps young people feel a stronger sense of connection to Dunsink’s scientific heritage and in the exciting space research happening in their local area.”

Julie Clarke, Youth & Education Officer of Fingal County Council said, “Space Crafts is an exemplar model of child-centred, experiential and inquiry-based learning in art and science, rooted in interdisciplinary collaboration across professional fields. We hope this project inspires schools to visit the Observatory and explore contemporary art and science in new and imaginative ways”.

Mayor of Fingal, Cllr Tom O’Leary said: “I’m delighted to help launch Mirrors to the Sky, a publication that celebrates curiosity, creativity and collaboration. This zine shows what is possible when science and art come together, connecting young people in Dublin 15 with Dunsink’s rich scientific heritage and the world?class space research happening on their doorstep. It is a shared achievement that I hope will inspire many others.”

Space Crafts is funded through the Research Ireland Discover Programme with additional support from ESERO Ireland.

Mirrors to the Sky is freely available here: