As the city gears up for Dublin: City of Science 2012, we take a journey with amateur astronomer and artist Deirdre Kelleghan whose equal passion for science and art is demonstrated in her work. Deirdre is a Discover Science and Engineering Science Ambassador 2012, Vice Chair of the Irish Federation of Astronomical Societies, National Co-ordinator for Astronomers Without Borders, as well as being UNAWE rep in Ireland. Deirdre will also be contributing to the Dublin City Public Libraries programme of events for Dublin: City of Science 2012.
The city on a sun drenched day. The Spire reflects and swirls the vibrant life of Dubliners mingled with mirrored clouds and the dominant blue light from our nearest star. Flower sellers petals are jollied by the brightness. Mica within the Liffey’s walls sparkle; ice cream melts down smiling faces. Celtic skin hovers in winters long lost vitamin, a gift from the sun, 93 million miles from the city. We enjoy our sophisticated fully functioning star, down here on one of the left over bits from its formation.
When we analyse light from our sun or any star we can see the arrangement of elements within its spectra. Looking into a star’s pattern of elements is like looking at the code of that star, its personal finger print, its DNA. Humans are bound together by the same elements which were created during the birth and death of stars. Our essence is ultimately recycled throughout unimaginable eons of time, black space and accreted molecular clouds.
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