Get your cameras out folks - there's a new competition to grab a snap of the rare, 'once in a lifetime' Nova set to light up Irish skies soon. Experts say this 'new star' will be visible as part of Corona Borealis constellation and the crew at Blackrock Castle are offering a fab prize for one lucky Rebel who gets a photo of it. No fancy camera equipment is needed, but keep in mind this rare event will only last for a few days - so you need to be on the ball.
Novas are caused by stars reigniting after lying dormant for many years, making them light up brighter than ever before in the night's sky. The Corona Borealis Nova - which happens at the 'Blaze Star' - will be triggered by built-up matter exploding in a 'powerful thermonuclear detonation' that last occurred back in 1946. While this rare event won't be visible for long, anyone who gets a pic of it is in with a chance to win a family pass to Blackrock Castle Observatory and other goodies as part of Space Week 2024.
Just grab a snap with your phone and pop it on Instagram with the hashtag 'NovaHunt' and tag @blackrockcastleobservatory between 1st-15th October for your chance to win. Entrants are also asked to share their location and a few words on who they're sharing this once-in-a-lifetime experience with. You can check out a full video below showing how to find the Nova within the Blaze Star constellation below.
The winner of the comp will announced on the day of the Nova explosion - or on October 16th if it occurs befor.