Astronomy Ireland is inviting the public to witness a rare celestial event as Saturn’s rings appear edge-on from Earth on October 21. The alignment, which happens only once every 15 years, is so precise that the rings may resemble a thin line or vanish from view entirely.

The Dublin-based organisation, which promotes astronomy and space science across the country, will host a special viewing event at its Blanchardstown headquarters starting at 7pm.

Attendees will have the chance to observe the phenomenon through some of the largest telescopes in Ireland. The event is open to families, children and adults.

This follows a rare “Titan shadow transit” in late September, when Saturn’s largest moon cast its shadow across the planet. Telescopes will be set up for public viewing.

Astronomy Ireland’s headquarters is located just off the M50 in Blanchardstown. Directions are available at www.astronomy.ie/map.