A display of celestial fireworks is set to peak late tonight as the Earth flies through a cloud of cometary dust.

Known as the aurora borealis, the phenomenon is usually best viewed in the north of Norway.

A 'Christmas comet' is set to pass unusually close to Earth this December, according to Astronomy Ireland.

The biggest meteor shower of the year will be visible over Irish skies tonight. The Geminids occur around December 13 each year.

If you look to the skies tonight you should be able to see a partial lunar eclipse.

Everyone is encouraged to keep a close eye on the north horizon over the next few nights as the northern lights are expected to be visible.

Astronomy Ireland held a free public event which allowed people to witness, through powerful telescopes, the planet Neptune as it appeared unusually close to the Moon last night.

Ireland is to design and build its very first spacecraft, it's been announced.