J16 - New Irish Observatory

Folks - I'm delighted to tell you that Kieran Rooney (Phoenix) has just been awarded the first observatory code for an amateur observatory in Northern Ireland.

J16 - An Carraig observatory is now officially recognised by the IAU.

Kieran has put in a tremendous amount of hard work over the years in astrophotography - many of us are familiar with his stunning images. But recently he embarked upon asteroid work. As a result of all his efforts, and particularly with his 80mm TMB APO and Starlight CCD imager, his work has paid off.

This is a proud moment for Kieran, for amateur astronomers in Ireland and especially for IYA 2009! The folks in Northern Ireland must be over the moon to have their first amateur observatory.

Well done Kieran!

Outstanding news , well done Kieran , its brill to get a good news story at the moment.

Many congratulations


Deirdre Kelleghan
PRO IFAS

Well done Kieran!

Michael.

Kieran,

I am absolutely thrilled for you. This is fantastic news and just recognition of all the hard work you put into it. As Dave said its a first for Northern Ireland and particularly welcome during IYA09!

Now the fun begins as you embark upon the real work of an astrometrist. It can be fun and frustrating all at the same time but its always rewarding. I wish you every success. Now you have to go on to discover Northern Ireland's first asteroid.

I'll be looking forward to it:)

Sincerest Contrats,

Dave.

I have to say a big thanks to the two Daves for all the help and support they provided over the last few months. I think it's probably the longest anyone has had to wait after submitting measurements to getting a reply from the MPC. This was due to a funding issue which has now thankfully been resolved.

I would also like to apologise to Dave McDonald. The data was sent on the 16th and every time I phoned Dave he was on tender hooks waiting to hear a good news story. I think the poor guy has no finger nails left .

Congrats Kieran,
Its a great achievement. !