'The Sun, Moon and Stars' exhibition continues in the tradition of astronomy in Offaly

“THE Sun, Moon and Stars” exhibition, currently on display in Birr library, has been hailed as “continuing in the tradition of astronomy” established by the Third Earl of Rosse in the south Offaly town.

The exhibition, which features the work of talented Rahan photographer, Tom O'Hanlon, was officially opened on Wednesday evening last and runs throughout the months of December and January.

The exhibition features images of celestial bodies such as the sun, moon and stars, with many of them captured right here in the heart of the midlands, including Tom's own back garden.

Earlier this year Tom had his image of the moon rising over Hook Head Lighthouse in County Wexford shortlisted in the prestigious astrophotography competition, Royal Museum's Greenwich “Astronomy Photographer of the Year.”

Tom is a freelance photographer whose work appears on a regular basis in the Tullamore and Midland Tribunes.

Speaking at the official opening, Sean McKenna, founder member of Midland Astronomy Club (MAC) and Vice-Chairman of Tullamore Camera Club, said he was thrilled to be asked to open such a wonderful display of Tom's photographic talent.

He added: “What started out as a hobby for Tom quickly became a passion.”

The speaker said Tom covered news and sports events for the Tribune and now works for national and international clients.

“He has amassed an extensive portfolio of photographic styles and themes including landscapes, portraits, wedding photography, sport and astrophotography.”

The MAC founder member continued: “To be technically proficient as a professional photographer is essential but Tom brings an added ingredient to his work. He has the eye which enables him to size up a scene or event and capture the magic or excitement of the moment. His sports photographer is an example of how he draws you into the excitement and colour of the action.”

The speaker said that for him it was Tom's work in landscapes and astrophotography that excited him the most.

“Both styles frequently overlap and the result is a perfect example of how he manges to both capture the beauty of nature and induce a sense of wonder and awe about the universe around us. His imaging of the Aurora is recent time is particularly awe inspiring and this exhibition showcases some of this awesome work.”

Birr librarian, Honor Ridgeway, said the library was delighted to host the exhibition and noted that many of the photographs had been taken here in the Midlands.

Tom O'Hanlon revealed he had “got into” astrophotography during the Covid pandemic and many of his images had been captured in his own back garden.

Admitting that it was a very lonely hobby at times he said he was often accompanied on his expeditions by his wife, Teresa and good friend and fellow photographer, Ger Rogers.

Describing the exhibition as a “great piece of magic”, Cllr Sean O'Brien said Tom's work was absolutely outstanding.

“These images speak for themselves . . . you could spend all night looking at them,” stressed the independent public representative.

He added that Tom's work had brought Rahan, Kilclonfert, Croghan Hill, Boora and Cappincur to international attention.

Minister Pippa Hackett said Tom's work featured in the exhibition focused on the beauty of the galaxy.

Referring to his recent front page photograph in the Irish Independent, Minister Hackett said she hoped Tom's work would feature on many more front pages in the national press in coming years.

The images on display in “The Sun, Moon and Stars” exhibition, can be purchased at reasonable prices and would make ideal Christmas gifts. More details from Tom O'Hanlon at 085 8856746.