Out of this world volunteers shine brightly at AOP

Armagh Observatory & Planetarium (AOP) is celebrating the people who give their time and skills to support its work.

Their newly appointed Volunteer Co-ordinator Kelly McGloin has been helping to open the doors to the centuries-old institution, creating opportunities for people both locally and from further afield.

Volunteering at AOP “is not just volunteering as we would traditionally know it,” Kelly explained. “It incorporates work experience students, university placements, and research internships.”

Equally important is the contribution of adult volunteers, many of whom dedicate significant time each week. “One has completed 300 hours and another has done 500,” Kelly noted. “They’re cataloguing archives, writing papers, attending conferences. The impact they’re making is tangible – you can see it.”

For some, volunteering represents an opportunity to pursue long-held interests.

The range of roles available for volunteers at AOP is extensive. They could assist in the café, support reception, contribute to educational materials, and even take on public speaking responsibilities, sharing the story of space exploration with visitors.

Kelly emphasises that the call for volunteers remains open and flexible. “It’s good to have different types of volunteers,” she said. “Some commit weekly, some come in for projects, others for special events. If anyone is interested, just get in touch – it’s as simple as that.”

“AOP is such an iconic place and it’s very unique,” she said. “You have education, curiosity and research, it all works together so well.”

👉 If you’d like to volunteer with AOP, have a look at their opportunity for Amateur Astronomer Volunteers for their Exhibition Area