Loughcrew Spring Equinox 2004

Loughcrew Cairn T - sunrise 22nd March 2004
Loughcrew Cairn T at sunrise on March 22nd 2004

Spring Equinox sunbeam
This image photographed inside Cairn T at 6:51am shows the shaped beam of equinox sunlight illuminating the back stone. Over a period of about 30 minutes the beam moves to the bottom right corner of the backstone.

This image photographed at 7:15am shows the beam of equinox sunlight illuminating the bottom right corner of the backstone.

This image photographed at 7:18am shows the last of the sunbeam on the backstone, the stones to the right of the back recess are now illuminated. There is a sun symbol at the bottom of the stone in the centre of the image.

Equinox sunrise at Cairn T viewed from inside the chamber
The equinox sunrise at Cairn T viewed from inside the chamber.


Light Years Ago by Tim O'Brien Light Years Ago: A Study of the Cairns of Newgrange and Cairn T Loughcrew, Co. Meath, Ireland by Tim O'Brien shows that the symbols of the sun engraved on the backstone of Cairn T at Loughcrew are precisely positioned to measure solar movement. A beam of light from the rising sun around the time of the March and September equinoxes is mapped on the backstone.

Purchase at Amazon.com or Amazon.co.uk

 

Loughcrew Video - Spring Equinox 2005

The progress of the sunbeam on the backstone inside Cairn T at Loughcrew was video recorded at sunrise on the morning of March 23rd 2005.


The origional 50 minute video has been compressed to 1 minute 46 seconds.

Gossan Stones Equinox Sunrise Alignment

Gossan Equinox Sunrise Alignment
The Equinox Sunrise is framed by the Gossan Stones in the Wicklow Mountains.

Boyne Valley Private Day Tour

Boyne Valley Tours
Immerse yourself in the rich heritage and culture of the Boyne Valley with our full-day private tours. Visit Newgrange World Heritage site, explore the Hill of Slane, where Saint Patrick famously lit the Paschal fire. Discover the Hill of Tara, the ancient seat of power for the High Kings of Ireland. Book Now