We are striving to be as inclusive and accessible as possible. We want anyone who visits Armagh Observatory and Planetarium to have an out of this world time. Below are some helpful links to help plan your visit.
For a visual tour of our planetarium building; Visual Tour of Armagh Planetarium
For a sensory map of our planetarium building; AOP Sensory Map
For more details about our accessibility, check out the AccessAble Guide to Armagh Planetarium
If you have any suggestions as to how we could better accommodate any and all visitors, please contact us at reception@armagh.ac.uk
Changing Places
In our Planetarium, on our upper level, we have a Changing Places facility. It includes a toilet with clearance space on each side for assistance, a changing bench, a hoist, an adjustable sink and shower facility. It can be accessed with a RADAR key. RADAR keys can be borrowed from reception on arrival.
Wheelchair Accessibility
The public areas of the Armagh Planetarium are fully wheelchair accessible. We have a lift to get to and from the upper level, as well as ramps located throughout the building. We also have a wheelchair that can be borrowed for the duration of your visit from reception.
If visiting the Armagh Observatory, wheelchairs can be accommodated with some exceptions due to the age and listed nature of the building. If you have any questions regarding this, please contact our Reception.
Sensory Room
We have a Sensory Room on the ground level of the Armagh Planetarium, filled with interactive stations and toys. We have an Interactive areas in which the walls and floor respond to movement, as well as bubble tubes and space suits to dress up in. This space is perfect for very young children, and those with additional sensory needs.
Digital Theatre Shows
Some of our shows in our Digital Theatre are marked as “Relaxed” or “Chilled” shows.
Relaxed shows are played at a lower volume level, with no dramatic changes in lighting, and to a smaller audience size to reduce noise. These sessions are recommended for children who find large crowds and loud noise difficult.
Chilled shows are shows with flexibility with regards to noise levels and exiting/entering our dome. These sessions are recommended for children who are likely to chat, and who would appreciate freedom to enter and exit the theatre if they need to.
If you would like some advice as to which session would be appropriate for your visit, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our Reception.
Thank you to our Bold Futures forum, funded by the Association of Science and Discovery Centres, for their help with creating information for our accessibility page. Please note Smoking and vaping are not permitted in AOP buildings.
