Astronomers at Queens University Belfast have aided in detecting titanium oxide in the atmosphere of an exoplanet (or extrasolar planet, the name given to a planet outside of our solar system that orbits a star) for the very first time in September. This reveals groundbreaking information about exoplanet WASP-19b, which is notable for possessing one of the shortest orbital … [Read more...] about QUB Study’s Astronomical Breakthrough
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Ireland Launches Global Irish Diaspora Directory
In keeping with promises made at the second Global Irish Civic Forum held at Dublin Castle in May, Minister of the State for the Diaspora Ciarán Cannon (above) launched the Global Irish Diaspora Directory in September. The directory contains publically-sourced details of Irish community welfare, culture, heritage, and networking groups and lists a total of 360 organizations, … [Read more...] about Ireland Launches Global Irish Diaspora Directory
Michael D. Higgins First Leader to Light Uisneach Fire in 1,000 Years
In May, Irish President Michael D. Higgins became the first Irish leader to light the ceremonial fire on the hill of Uisneach in County Westmeath since the last High King (presumed to be Ruaidrí Ua Conchobair) nearly 1,000 years ago. Higgins follows in the footsteps of previous modern Irish leaders to make the pilgrimage to Uisneach, including Daniel O’Connell, Pádraig Pearse, … [Read more...] about Michael D. Higgins First Leader to Light Uisneach Fire in 1,000 Years
Brian Burns Named New Irish Ambassador
Philanthropist, businessman, and Irish America Hall of Fame member Brian Burns was officially announced as President Donald Trump’s appointment for ambassador to Ireland in January. He was tapped for the position in November, well before Trump’s inauguration on January 17 and must still undergo a lengthy approval process. Eighty-year-old Massachusetts-native Burns is the … [Read more...] about Brian Burns Named New Irish Ambassador
Gen. Martin Dempsey Receives Joyce Award
General Martin Dempsey, the former chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, was presented with the James Joyce Award in Dublin recently. Also known as the Honorary Fellowship of the Society, the award is given by the Literary and Historical Society of University College Dublin for those who have achieved outstanding success in their given field. Recipients have ranged from … [Read more...] about Gen. Martin Dempsey Receives Joyce Award