Speakers & Creators
From astronomers and ecologists to sound artists and storytellers, our lineup includes voices exploring the intersection of science, nature and culture.
Meet Our Speakers and Creators
Browse their profiles below to discover who will guide your journey into the night.
Speaker Type
Dame Jocelyn Bell Burnell
Pioneering astrophysicist whose remarkable career has changed the world of science.
Michael Chambers
Bringing the stories, wildlife and hidden history of the Nephin Beg Mountains to life.
Darragh Ennis
Irish entomologist, neuroscientist, professional quizzer, and television personality
Séamus & Caoimhe
Connemara musicians celebrated for their distinctive arrangements and close harmonies
Bettymaya Foott
Bringing together lighting design, conservation and a lifelong love of dark skies
Mary Gavaghan
Education Guide connecting people with the remarkable natural heritage of Wild Nephin.
Marjolijn van Heemstra
Bringing a cosmic perspective to how we see our planet and the night.
Declan Holmes
Helping bring science to life while championing sustainable lighting in Mayo.
Stephen Kershaw
Founder of KTec Telescopes, making astronomy and astrophotography accessible to everyone
Jack L
One of Ireland’s most distinctive and compelling performers, renowned for ability to make every song entirely his own.
Kate McAney
Bat conservationist and lifelong advocate for Ireland’s nocturnal wildlife and the dark skies they depend upon.
Ella McSweeney
Award-winning journalist exploring food, farming, science and the environment.
Tom Meskell
Creating spectacular lantern sculptures that bring people together through art and light.
Marina Mulligan
Conservation biologist exploring the connections between wildlife, people, place and dark skies.
Mixies Brixies
Bringing creativity, teamwork and hands-on learning together through LEGO workshops.
James O’Neill
Researching the hidden lives of Woodcock and Red Grouse in the Irish landscape.
Andrea Parisi
Listening to our landscapes to better understand and protect their wildlife.
Purple Foxglove Films
Local filmmakers documenting Mayo’s history, heritage and communities.
Richard Sabin
Marine mammal expert uncovering the remarkable stories hidden within museum collections.
Niall Smith
Co-founder of Blackrock Castle Observatory and a leading voice in Irish space science.
Fergus Sweeney
Connecting people with the stories, culture and remarkable coastal landscape of the Mullet Peninsula.
Louise Tomsett
Exploring how scientific collections can deepen our understanding of wildlife and the natural world.
Eoin Warner
Wildlife documentary maker and author Eoin Warner will perform the official opening of the Mayo Dark Sky Festival
John Zarnecki
Exploring distant worlds through some of the most remarkable missions in space history.
Ready to Plan Your Festival Experience?
Explore the programme to discover talks, night-time events and experiences inspired by Mayo’s dark skies.