Named after the Department of Education for Northern Ireland for its support of the Armagh Observatory, where Ernst Opik {see planet  (2099)} carried out seminal work on the collisional evolution and dynamics of small bodies. The DENI has promoted life-long learning and research across many disciplines, encompassing higher education, schools, museums, recreation and culture. It has sought for many years to advance knowledge and understanding of the natural world, and to provide the means by which as many people as possible may appreciate and continue to develop Northern Ireland’ rich cultural heritage, its diversity and contributions to the scientific, intellectual and social life of the community. (M 34351) _ _.