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Armagh Observatory and Planetarium marked a remarkable milestone this week, 230 years of daily weather observations, with readings taken every single day since 14 July 1795. To celebrate the occasion, the Observatory hosted a special gathering at its historic meteorological enclosure (“MET cage”) today 14 July followed by a Family Fun Day at the Planetarium.
Meteorological measurements at Armagh began in December 1794, with an unbroken sequence of daily weather readings starting in July 1795, making this one of the longest continuous climate records in the British Isles.
“Reaching 230 years of uninterrupted weather records is an extraordinary achievement,” said Dr Kerem Osman Çubuk, Astronomy Communicator at Armagh Observatory and Planetarium.
“This archive is one of the oldest and most consistent climate datasets globally, critical for understanding long-term climate trends, planning our futures, and celebrating centuries of dedicated observations.”
Since 1836, rainfall has been recorded daily; humidity data (wet bulb) from 1838; and maximum and minimum daily temperatures from 1844. Instrumentation has evolved over time from primitive thermometers and barometers to a Stevenson Screen (installed 1865) and a modern Met Office standard automatic weather station, which was added in 2018. The Observatory was also officially recognised as a WMO Centennial Observing Station in 2018.
Those attending the 14 July event were invited to view the historic meteorological instruments and learn about the Observatory’s unique legacy of continuous observation. The celebrations continued with a Family Fun Day at the Planetarium.
Families also enjoyed access to Planetarium exhibits, the sensory room, and dome shows as part of a full day of engaging and educational experiences.
This landmark occasion highlighted Armagh Observatory’s extraordinary scientific heritage and underscored its ongoing mission: to connect people with climate, space, and the wonder of scientific discovery.
