Stars, snake and skin care at Science Week in Offaly

Offaly science enthusiasts can look forward to everything from snakes and stars to the science of skin when the Midlands Science Festival comes to the county next month with another deep dive into the fascinating world of all things science related!

Science Week takes place the second week of November and this year it celebrates 30 years. A host of interesting events are scheduled to take part across the midlands with Midlands Science, supported by Research Ireland.

Among the many events to look forward to in Offaly is a Discovery Day in association with Integra which takes place on Thursday, November 13, and includes everything from Ireland’s largest mobile planetarium allowing participants to explore the world of astronomy to the Reptile Zoo. Participants can get up close and personal at the Discovery Day with everything from stars to snakes!

This year’s Discovery Day is organised so that school groups can attend the morning sessions,with the afternoons left free for families and the public to attend. This change has been made in response to feedback and demand.

Other events in Offaly include Skin Deep Science exploring the science of skin where participants can learn all about skin health and skin care with Dermatologist Dr Olywn Conlan. In a world where much skin health and care information is from social media, this event is a chance to hear from a real expert in skin health and skin care and separate fact from fiction.

The Midlands Science Festival will also include a screening of movies from Curam and Ardan’s Science on Screen initiative which connects the Irish public with science and research through thought-provoking movies about health and society. This screening will include participants filming their reactions to the screening and interviews afterwards.

Jackie Gorman, CEO of Midlands Science, described the Midlands Science Festival as "a highlight" of the year's programming which provides "a wide range of opportunities" to connect with different groups across the region. "In Offaly this year we have everything from snakes to skincare to screenings so there is something for everyone and I’d encourage everyone to celebrate 30 years of Science Week” she said.

More information on Science Week in the midlands is available on www.midlandsscience.ie