Davagh Dark Sky Observatory
The Dark Sky Observatory is a new build visitor centre designed by ARCEN to give visitors a unique opportunity to experience the night sky as it is rarely viewed – and as it would have been seen centuries ago by our ancestors.
Combining the latest technology, from holographic installations to virtual reality headsets with colourful, accessible interpretation panels and hands-on activities, visitors to the centre will be able to explore our solar system from our sun and moon to our stars and the planets, all under one roof.
The centre piece of the space is a star-gazing telescope and retractable roof feature, opening up the opportunities to view the night sky without light pollution and establishing Davagh as the only official ‘dark sky’ reserve in Ireland.
The bespoke design of the project included its irregular build shape, Sedum (grass) roof and Cedar timber wall cladding. The creative vision was designed to sit seamlessly in the blanket bog environment, to look as though it was floating on the natural environment, fantastically achieved and evident from the finished product.
The Observatory is sited at the foot of the Sperrin mountains and in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).
