Armagh Observatory Marks 230 Years of Continuous Weather Records

Armagh Observatory in Northern Ireland has celebrated 230 years of continuous, handwritten weather observations, making it the longest unbroken weather record in the UK and Ireland. Since July 14, 1795, meteorological data including temperature, air pressure, and rainfall have been manually recorded daily, preserving consistency despite modern automation elsewhere. The observatory continues to use many of the original instruments, such as the Stevenson Screen, ensuring data continuity, with current principal observer Shane Kelly noting changes in weather patterns, including less distinct seasons. The archive is one of the oldest and most consistent climate datasets globally, serving as a crucial resource for understanding long-term climate trends. The milestone was marked with special events, including public viewings of historic instruments and educational activities at the associated planetarium. The observatory’s dedication to manual recording emphasizes the educational value of hands-on data collection in scientific training and climate study.