LOFAR for the Classroom

Why teach about I-LOFAR?

I-LOFAR is bringing astronomy back to the midlands and is the perfect tool for teaching science in schools.

• Ireland’s Rich Heritage in Astronomy:

Ireland, especially the midlands, has a rich and often forgotten history of Astronomy that stretches from the megalithic builders of astronomically aligned monuments such as Newgrange, to the ground-breaking Victorian engineering of the astronomical Earls of Birr Castle, to now the construction of I-LOFAR.

• Astronomy as Gateway to Science

Astronomy has the ability to engage and inspire people from all backgrounds as our wonder of the night sky transcends differences in age, education and social background. I-LOFAR has the ability to draw people into a conversation about history, culture and technology and can be used as a tool to drive scientific education in schools not normally exposed to astronomy or STEM subjects.

• Connections

I-LOFAR is an ideal opportunity to connect schools, especially those in rural areas, to Universities in all the main cities throughout Ireland. I-LOFAR exposes local students to the potentially unexplored areas of further training and education. I-LOFAR also serves as an international connection to other communities all over Europe where the other LOFAR stations are located.