Alicia Clements says they've been fighting for world recognition for his telescope since the 1980s.
The family of the Third Earl of Rosse are delighted Birr telescope has moved a step closer to being recognised as a UNESCO world heritage site.
Alicia Clements, who is his Great Great Great Grand Daughter and Manager of the Birr Estate says they've been hoping and fighting for world recognition for his telescope since the 1980s.
It along with the Dunsink Observatory House, in Dublin and the Armagh Planetarium and Observatory are being acknowledged for their role in astronomical discoveries.
Birr Castle Demesne began as a private observatory of the 3rd Earl of Rosse. It is most famous for the Great Leviathan of Parsonstown, built in 1845, then the largest telescope in the world.
Lady Clements says the family are thrilled the historical importance of the telescope is being celebrated:
Speaking on the announcement, Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science James Lawless said: “I am delighted to congratulate Armagh, Birr and Dunsink Observatories on being added to Ireland’s UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List. Ireland has a long history of advancing scientific knowledge and the addition of these observatories to the list is a recognition of that work and expertise. This recognition also serves as a powerful inspiration for future generations, encouraging more minds to explore the world of science, sparking curiosity and driving the pursuit of new knowledge even further."
Revenue Seize Contraband Worth €580k In Various Operations
€200k in Funding For Recreational Spaces Set For Midlands
New RSA Report Finds 38 Serious Road Injuries In Midlands
Laois Priest Praises Pope Leo's AI Encyclical
Laois County Council Launch Public Realm Project
Westmeath Actress Ties The Knot
Laois Shop Set To Close Doors After Three Generations In Business
Laois And Offaly Under Status Yellow High Temperature Warning
Fundraiser For Offaly Family Of Tadgh Farrell Taking Place This Weekend
Occupied Territories Bill Set To Be Approved
Irish Troops Returning After UNIFIL Deployment
Laois Sustainable Future Conference Taking Place Today
FTD Brothers Take Off From Offaly
Two Arrested For Abusive Behaviour On Westmeath Bus
Planning Permission Granted for New Laois Homes Despite Public Objection
Midlands Animal Charity Criticize Viral Video Of Horse In Supermarket
Gardai Attend Scene Of Westmeath Crash
Public Meeting On Irish Neutrality In Laois Tonight
Midlands Braced For Record Breaking Temperatures
Midlands Hospital Experiencing High Admission Numbers