Galactic message launched to Cork

AN ASTRONAUT with strong family ties to Cork sent best wishes from space yesterday to mark the official opening of the country’s newest and most advanced observatory and space education centre.

Dan Tani, who blasted off for the International Space Station (ISS) on board the shuttle Discovery last month, wished his parents-in-law, Larry and Mary Egan, the very best as they attended the opening of Cosmos at the Castle, the final element of the €7.5 million Blackrock Castle Observatory in Cork.

It was hoped to complete a live link up with Mr Tani, who is married to the Egans’ daughter Jane, during the opening ceremony.