About AOP
The Armagh Observatory was established in 1790 by Archbishop Richard Robinson. It is the oldest scientific institution in Northern Ireland and the longest continuously operating astronomical research institute in the United Kingdom and Ireland.
The Armagh Planetarium was founded in 1968 by Dr Eric Lindsay, the seventh Director of the Armagh Observatory. It is the oldest operating Planetarium in the UK and Ireland, celebrating 50 years in operation on 1 May 2018 as the public face of space and astronomy in Northern Ireland.
Armagh Observatory and Planetarium is sited in a heritage environment with a rich scientific history at the forefront of astronomy. Now unified as a single organisation, the Armagh Observatory and Planetarium (AOP) delivers internationally-recognised research in astronomy and related sciences and vibrant educational and outreach programmes for all ages.
Our Corporate Plan 2018-2021 sets out a three year strategy to achieve stability for the organisation and provide a firm foundation for the future, upon which a greater ambition can be realised.
Our Staff
Senior Management Team
Professor Michael Burton, Chief Executive and Director
Dr Marc Sarzi, Head of Research
Carol Corvan, Head of Corporate Services
Leonard Knox, Head of Finance and Income Generation
Sinead Mackle, Education and Outreach Manager
Corporate Team
Lynne Brown, Corporate Manager
Aileen McKee, Executive Officer
Shane Kelly, Estates and Meteorological Officer
Anne Bittle, Executive Officer
Lisa O'Neill, Corporate Support
Ceara Ryan, Accountant
Victoria McMahon, Finance and Administrative Officer
Ciaran Magee, ICT Manager
Shóna Gavin, ICT Placement Student
Education Team
Martina Glass, Operations Manager
Heather Alexander, Senior Education Officer
Helen McLoughlin, Senior Education Officer
Ria Mee, Education Officer
Nick Parke, Education Officer
Anna Taylor, Education Officer
Courtney Allison, Education Officer
Dympna McNally, Receptionist