Meet Carl O’Beirnes
Behind Big Bear Planetariums is Carl O’Beirnes, a practising astronomer with more than 30 years of hands-on experience observing, imaging and exploring the night sky. That experience brings a personal dimension to every immersive school visit.
A lifetime under the stars
Astronomy is more than a subject Carl presents – it is something he practises. Decades spent working with telescopes, specialist astronomical cameras and observatory equipment mean that pupils can ask questions of someone who observes the universe for real.
J09 Balbriggan Observatory
Carl operates J09 Balbriggan Observatory in County Dublin. J09 is an official Minor Planet Center observatory code. His observational work includes near-Earth asteroids and observations associated with the Minor Planet Center in Massachusetts, which gathers and processes measurements of small bodies in the Solar System.
Working alongside Sir Patrick Moore
Carl’s astronomy journey includes working alongside the late Sir Patrick Moore in connection with the BBC astronomy programme The Sky at Night. Carl remembers their shared interest in observing, the stories Sir Patrick told and the opportunity to see some of his early astronomy notes. Those experiences helped shape Carl’s enthusiasm for sharing the night sky with others.
From the observatory to your school hall
Big Bear Planetariums brings this practical astronomy experience into schools through spectacular 4K 360-degree immersive space movies, curriculum-linked STEM presentations and age-appropriate discussion.
Tailored shows
Shows tailored to pupils’ ages and learning needs.
Wheelchair accessible
A fully wheelchair-accessible portable planetarium.
Sensory-friendly
Sensory-friendly shows available on request.
In your school hall
An educational experience brought directly into the school hall.
Inspiring tomorrow’s astronomers
The aim is to spark curiosity and encourage pupils to ask questions about the real universe. A planetarium visit can be the beginning of a lasting interest in science, technology, engineering, mathematics and astronomy.
We don’t just bring the universe to your school. We bring the astronomer too.
Enquire about a school visit
Tell us your school, date and class sizes and we’ll be back to you with availability and a quote. You can also email info@bigbearplanetariums.ie or call 083 800 1933.