Museums
The UK space industry has really taken off, with recent reports revealing that it has been just about the only manufacturing sector not adversely affected by the recession. So it’s befitting that such a stellar industry is represented by an inspiring museum – the National Space Centre in Leicester.
Split into seven sections, each boasting impressive exhibits, the National Space Centre manages to provide well-structured information for adults, while offering fun interactive games to make the learning experience more appealing to the youngsters. These include sections such as Exploring the Universe, The Planets, and Orbiting the Earth. In addition to this there is the impressive 42m Rocket Tower and the highly entertaining and educational Space Theatre.
The structure means it is easy to digest the information, and move around the museum at a brisk or slow pace, depending on how long you want to spend there. A family could quite easily spend most of the day here if they wanted to, without the experience ever feeling too complicated for the younger punter, or too patronising for the elder.
From a walk-through solar system – complete with remote-control Mars Rovers – to walk-in interiors of spaceship control rooms and a history of space telescope technology, each section has visually engaging exhibits on display.
The Rocket Tower, which is a scaled-down model of a space rocket, is just one example. It has three decks that cover a whole range of space-related information, from tracing the development of rocket technology to the space race.
The globe-shaped Space Theatre is another highlight. Each show combines the latest 3D computer animation with a light-hearted educational story that will make anything, from Cern to the James Webb space telescope, fascinating for viewers of all ages.
The National Space Centre is a great visit for all the family and generally doesn’t put a gravity-free foot wrong. Unlike some museums, it is not overwhelming in size and its exhibitions are never boring or repetitive. You will leave feeling you have learned something new.
With its endless supply of activities and interactive games, it may seem to lean more towards the younger audience. But, as the space industry tries to attract more youngsters to work in the sector, this is perhaps a good thing.
- Admission charge: £13 adults, £11 children. Opening times: Tues-Fri 10am-4pm, Sat-Sun 10am-5pm. For more information visit www.spacecentre.co.uk