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Here are five satellites that have recently passed over Ireland and what they are doing in space:
EIRSAT-1 is Ireland’s first satellite. It was launched in 2023 by University College Dublin and the European Space Agency. It is testing new space technology, such as how to spot powerful space events called gamma-ray bursts and how materials work in space.
Meteosat-11 is a weather satellite that looks at Europe and Ireland from space. It sends back pictures every 15 minutes, showing clouds, rain, and storms. This helps weather forecasters know what’s happening in real time.
MTG-I1 is a new and improved weather satellite. It shows very clear images every 10 minutes and can even spot lightning, which is useful for tracking big storms over Ireland.
Sentinel-4 looks at the air over Europe. It checks for pollution and gases like ozone and nitrogen dioxide, helping scientists learn about our air quality.
The International Space Station (ISS) is not a weather satellite, but it passes over Ireland often. It carries astronauts who do science experiments and can be seen from Earth as a bright moving light in the night sky.
These satellites help us understand space, weather, and the environment in exciting ways that I can share with my pupils.
While introducing the kids to Greata Thunberg, you could read them the storybook Greta and the Giants.
This engaging and age-appropriate video explains climate change in simple, visual terms—how greenhouse gases warm the planet and the importance of caring for our environment. The friendly narration and colorful animations keep young learners engaged, showing the cause-and-effect relationship in a way junior infants can grasp.
I would introduce these climate facts by first watching the video as a class, prompting questions like, “What makes our Earth too warm?” and “Why do trees matter?” Then, I’d lead a hands-on activity: planting a small tree or caring for classroom plants to show how they help absorb greenhouse gases. We could also draw pictures of healthy and unhealthy Earth scenarios, linking visuals to the video’s message.
To reinforce learning, I’d set up a “Weather Detective” corner where pupils track daily weather, notice changes, and discuss how our actions—like using less energy or walking instead of driving—can protect the planet. This approach makes abstract climate ideas meaningful, memorable, and actionable for young minds.
I love the idea of having a chat about what we could do to help the environment. I’m confident the children would contribute some great ideas.
Activity 3, Climate Reporters, is a great way to help junior infants learn about weather, climate, and how our world might change in the future. Before starting, we watched the Paxi video on greenhouse gases, which was fun and easy for young children to understand. It explained how gases like carbon dioxide trap heat and make the Earth warmer.
Using the temperature prediction tool, we looked at what the weather might be like in 2050 if we take care of the planet or if we don’t. I would use this with my class by keeping it simple—looking at pictures, using colour-coded thermometers, and talking about hot and cold days.
To make the activity more suitable, I would do it in small groups with lots of support and hands-on materials. We could also use our school weather station to compare today’s weather with the future predictions. Sharing our ideas in circle time would help build confidence and understanding.
I love the idea of involving grandparents. It’s a great way to encourage links between school and home and I know the grandparents’ would love it.
In my junior infants classroom, STEM education is playful, hands-on, and rooted in real-world problem-solving. I integrate Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics in a way that fosters curiosity, creativity, and collaboration. My pupils explore scientific concepts by investigating materials, observing nature, and asking questions about the world around them. They act as mini engineers—designing and building with blocks, recycled items, or natural materials—learning to think critically and test their ideas. Technology is introduced through age-appropriate tools, such as interactive whiteboards, simple coding apps, or digital drawing, helping children record and share their discoveries. Maths is woven into everything we do, from measuring ingredients in baking to sorting autumn leaves by size or colour. Through collaborative tasks and inquiry-based activities, my pupils develop problem-solving skills and learn that mistakes are part of learning. STEM in my classroom is meaningful, child-led, and filled with wonder.
