Niall Smith | SMEC 2008

Dr. Niall Smith

Blackrock Castle Observatory, Cork

Biography

Niall Smith has held the position of Head of Research at Cork Institute of Technology since 2005. He is also Principal Scientist at Blackrock Castle Observatory (BCO). The Observatory was opened in 2007 and presently houses a robotic observatory alongside Ireland’s first interactive science centre based on the theme of Life in the Universe. Dr. Smith’s research interests include optical searches for extrasolar planets using telescopes on a number of sites in both the northern and southern hemispheres. As a central figure in developing and implementing the concept at BCO, he is very interested in encouraging more of the population, young and old, to gain a better insight into the scientific method and its importance to society. Dr. Smith has co-authored over 30 papers and conference proceedings, 1 book chapter and has supervised 15 postgraduate students. He is also a member of the International Astronomical Union.

21st Century Science in a 16th Century Castle

Abstract: 
The continued decline in the number of young people taking science and technology subjects at second level is a concern for any society which aspires to be knowledge-based. Reversing the trend may be vital to future economic success, but experience shows it is by no means a trivial matter. This talk will outline the rationale underlying the project at BCO, the reaction of visitors to date, the advantages of integrating research and public outreach in a science center and the challenges of making the facility relevant from a curriculum point of view.  It will also explore how astronomy can be used as an educational vehicle that crosses disciplinary boundaries in a package that has general appeal to all ages.

The BCO website is www.bco.ie