Meade have very generously donated another telescope to raffle at the Astronomy Festival. This year ...
read more »
20th Jul 2010 15:47
The Centre will open from 8pm on the 12th August for a chance to spot the Perseids Meteor Shower as ...
read more »
20th Jul 2010 15:40
A new gallery has been launched on the web site to showcase some of the amazing photos taken during ...
read more »
29th Apr 2010 15:57
The Observatory Science Centre
Herstmonceux
Hailsham
East Sussex
BN27 1RN
Herstmonceux
Hailsham
East Sussex
BN27 1RN
Tel: 01323 832731
Fax: 01323 832741
Fax: 01323 832741
Calendar of Events
Open weekends of 23rd / 24th and 30th / 31st
10 am - 5 pm. Last admission 3 pm.
Saturday 23rd - Open Evening
Time: 6.30pm - 11pm
Cost: New Year special ONLY £3 per person
For more information see Open Evenings
Open daily 10 am - 5 pm.
Last admission 3 pm.
Monday 15th February - Sunday 21st February (local half term school holidays) - In addition to our hands-on exhibits there will be daily telescope tours and The Fantastic Forces show. These are included in your admission price.
- 3 Telescope Tours per day usually at 12pm, 2pm & 4pm
- 3 Fantastic Forces Shows per day usually at 11am, 1pm & 3pm
We also have additional drop-in activities in the Zany Zone (small additional charge of £1 per child) and fantastic half day workshops for children - see below for dates, times and prices.
Saturday 13th - Open Evening
Time: 6.30pm - 11pm
Cost: SPECIAL OFFER 1 child admitted FREE with every paying adult
For more information see Open Evenings
Monday 15th - Drop in activities in the Zany Zone
Time: 11am - 4pm
Cost: Normal admission price plus £1 extra per child.
Please note that children 2 years and up will be charged for the Zany Zone
For more information see Drop in Activities
Tuesday 16th - 'Eat your Heart Out' half day workshops
Get your heart pumping, check out your pulse and make your own stethoscope. Just some of the fun activities before you relax and make your own heart-warming treats.
Time: 10.30am - 1pm
Cost: £8.95 per child - this is for the workshop ONLY - BOOKING ESSENTIAL
Age: 6 + years
Notes for Parents/Guardians: Before booking your child/children on to a workshop please read the 'Notes for Parents/Guardians.' This will give you more information about how to book.
Please note whilst we endeavour to include all activities mentioned in the description, some activities may vary on the day.
Wednesday 17th - 'Arty Stars and Planets' half day workshops
Be crafty and creative decorating your own stars and planets to take home. Workshop materials include water-based paint, glue and glitter. Please wear suitable clothing.
Time: 10.30am - 1pm
Cost: £8.95 per child - this is for the workshop ONLY - BOOKING ESSENTIAL
Age: 6 + years
Notes for Parents/Guardians: before booking your child/children on to a workshop please consult the 'Notes for Parents/Guardians.' This will give you more information about how to book.
Please note whilst we endeavour to include all activities mentioned in the description, some activities may vary on the day.
Saturday 20th - Open Evening
Time: 6.30pm - 11pm
Cost: Normal entrance fee
For more information see Open Evenings
Open daily 10 am - 5 pm.
Last admission 3 pm.
Wednesdays 3rd/10th/17th/24th - Spring Star Search 4 week evening course
This course is designed to help you recognise the constellations so you will be able to navigate your way around the night sky. It incorporates lectures in one of the telescope domes with looking at the whole sky using the naked eye (weather permitting).
Time: 7.30pm -9.30pm
Cost: £48 for 4 evenings. BOOKING ESSENTIAL
For more information see Astronomy Courses
Saturday 13th - Family Open Evening for National Science and Engineering Week
Time: 6.30pm - 11pm
Cost: 1 child admitted FREE with each paying adult
For more information see Open Evenings
Saturday 20th - Open Evening
Time: 6.30pm - 11pm
Cost: Normal admission charge
For more information see Open Evenings
Open daily 10 am - 6 pm.
Last admission 4 pm.
2nd April - 18th April (local school holidays) - In addition to our hands-on exhibits there will be daily telescope tours and science shows. These are included in your admission price.
- 3 Telescope Tours per day usually at 12pm, 2pm & 4pm
- 3 Science Shows per day usually at 11am, 1pm & 3pm
We also have additional drop-in activities in the Zany Zone (small additional charge of £1 per child) and fantastic pre-booked half day and full day workshops for children - see below for dates, times and prices.
Good Friday to Easter Monday 2nd/3rd/4th/5th - Easter Science Trail
Our alternative to an Easter Egg Hunt! Follow the sheet of science questions that will lead you around the centre and then claim your mini Easter Egg if the answers are correct.
Normal admission price applies - NO EXTRA CHARGE for the trail.
Tuesday 6th - 'Rocketry' half day workshops
Learn all about the mighty rockets that launch robot explorers to the planets and fly men and women into space. Make and launch your own balloon and water powered rockets.
Time: 10.30am - 1pm or 2pm - 4.30pm
Cost: £8.95 per child - this is for the workshop ONLY - BOOKING ESSENTIAL
Age: 6 + years
Notes for Parents/Guardians: Before booking your child/children on to a workshop please read the 'Notes for Parents/Guardians.' This will give you more information about how to book.
Please note whilst we endeavour to include all activities mentioned in the descriptions, some may vary on the day.
Wednesday 7th - 'Rocketry' full day workshop
The rocket is the only engine that will work in space. To-day you will make and launch a water-powered rocket which you will float back to Earth by parachute. You will also make and race simple rocket powered cars.
Time: 10.30am - 4pm
Cost: £19.95 per child - this is for the workshop ONLY - BOOKING ESSENTIAL
Age: 9 + years.
Notes for Parents/Guardians: Before booking your child/children on to a workshop please read the 'Notes for Parents/Guardians.' This will give you more information about how to book.
Please note whilst we endeavour to include all activities mentioned in the descriptions, some may vary on the day.
Monday 12th - Drop in activities in the Zany Zone
Time: 11am - 4pm
Cost: Normal admission price plus £1 extra per child.
Please note that children 2 years and up will be charged for the Zany Zone
For more information see Drop in Activities
Tuesday 13th - 'Man in the Moon' half day workshops *NEW* for 2010
Learn all about the features of the Moon through fun interactive activities. Make some fantastic craters and hear about the mysteries about the "Man in the Moon".
Time: 10.30am - 1pm or 2pm - 4.30pm
Cost: £8.95 per child - this is for the workshop ONLY - BOOKING ESSENTIAL
Age: 6 + years
Notes for Parents/Guardians: Before booking your child/children on to a workshop please read the 'Notes for Parents/Guardians.' This will give you more information about how to book.
Please note whilst we endeavour to include all activities mentioned in the descriptions, some may vary on the day.
Wednesday 14th - 'The Mysterious Moon' full day workshop *NEW* for 2010
Why is the Moon so important to us? How was it made? Why did we land there? Learn all about our satellite including its many features. Make fantastic craters and examine some real Moon rock.
Time: 10.30am - 4pm
Cost: £19.95 per child - this is for the workshop ONLY - BOOKING ESSENTIAL
Age: 9 + years.
Notes for Parents/Guardians: Before booking your child/children on to a workshop please read the 'Notes for Parents/Guardians.' This will give you more information about how to book.
Please note whilst we endeavour to include all activities mentioned in the descriptions, some may vary on the day.
Saturday 24th - Open Evening
Time: 6.30pm - 11pm
Cost: Normal admission charge
For more information see Open Evenings
May 2010
Open daily 10 am - 6 pm.
Last admission 4 pm.
Bank Holiday weekend; 1st, 2nd and 3rd
Daily Telescope Tours PLUS Spectacular Science Shows on Sunday 2nd and Monday 3rd May.
Wednesdays 19th/26th May and 2nd/9th/16th June - Radio Astronomy 5 week evening course
Our eyes are only sensitive to visible light. What would the sky look like if we could see radio waves? This introductory course on radio astronomy focuses on our solar system and what the amateur radio astronomer can achieve. No previous knowledge of astronomy or radio is necessary
Time: 7.30pm - 9.30pm
Cost: £60
For further details see Astronomy Courses
Monday 12th - Drop in activities in the Zany Zone
Time: 11am - 4pm
Cost: Normal admission price plus £1 extra per child.
Please note that children 2 years and up will be charged for the Zany Zone
For more information see Drop in Activities
Open daily 10 am - 6 pm.
Last admission 4 pm.
Bank Holiday weekend; 1st, 2nd and 3rd
Daily Telescope Tours PLUS Spectacular Science Shows on Sunday 2nd and Monday 3rd May.
Wednesdays 19th/26th May and 2nd/9th/16th June - Radio Astronomy 5 week evening course
Our eyes are only sensitive to visible light. What would the sky look like if we could see radio waves? This introductory course on radio astronomy focuses on our solar system and what the amateur radio astronomer can achieve. No previous knowledge of astronomy or radio is necessary
Time: 7.30pm - 9.30pm
Cost: £60
For further details see Astronomy Courses
Monday 12th - Drop in activities in the Zany Zone
Time: 11am - 4pm
Cost: Normal admission price plus £1 extra per child.
Please note that children 2 years and up will be charged for the Zany Zone
For more information see Drop in Activities
June 2010
Open daily 10 am - 6 pm.
Last admission 4 pm.
29th May - 6th June (local half term school holidays) - In addition to our hands-on exhibits there will be daily telescope tours and The Bubble Show. These are included in your admission price.
- 3 Telescope Tours per day usually at 12pm, 2pm & 4pm
- 3 Science Shows per day usually at 11am, 1pm & 3pm
We also have additional drop-in activities in the Zany Zone (small additional charge of £1 per child) and fantastic half day workshops for children - see below for dates, times and prices.
Tuesday 1st - 'Music' half day workshops
Time: 10.30am - 1pm or 2pm - 4.30pm
Cost: £8.95 per child - this is for the workshop ONLY - BOOKING ESSENTIAL
Age: 6 + years
Notes for Parents/Guardians: Before booking your child/children on to a workshop please read the 'Notes for Parents/Guardians.' This will give you more information about how to book.
Please note whilst we endeavour to include all activities mentioned in the descriptions, some may vary on the day.
Open daily 10 am - 6 pm.
Last admission 4 pm.
29th May - 6th June (local half term school holidays) - In addition to our hands-on exhibits there will be daily telescope tours and The Bubble Show. These are included in your admission price.
- 3 Telescope Tours per day usually at 12pm, 2pm & 4pm
- 3 Science Shows per day usually at 11am, 1pm & 3pm
We also have additional drop-in activities in the Zany Zone (small additional charge of £1 per child) and fantastic half day workshops for children - see below for dates, times and prices.
Tuesday 1st - 'Music' half day workshops
Time: 10.30am - 1pm or 2pm - 4.30pm
Cost: £8.95 per child - this is for the workshop ONLY - BOOKING ESSENTIAL
Age: 6 + years
Notes for Parents/Guardians: Before booking your child/children on to a workshop please read the 'Notes for Parents/Guardians.' This will give you more information about how to book.
Please note whilst we endeavour to include all activities mentioned in the descriptions, some may vary on the day.
Come and build your own car and hovercraft and find out how far they travel using the power of gravity, balloons, propellers or solar panels. Which goes faster?
This workshop has been kindly supported by Duracell
Time: 10.30am - 1pm or 2pm - 4.30pm
Cost: £8.95 per child - this is for the workshop ONLY - BOOKING ESSENTIAL
Age: 6 + years
Notes for Parents/Guardians: Before booking your child/children on to a workshop please read the 'Notes for Parents/Guardians.' This will give you more information about how to book.
Please note whilst we endeavour to include all activities mentioned in the descriptions, some may vary on the day.
July 2010
Open daily 10 am - 6 pm.
Last admission 4 pm.
Monday 26th - Drop in activities in the Zany Zone
Time: 11am - 4pm
Cost: Normal admission fee plus £1 extra per child.
Please note that children 2 years and up will be charged for the Zany Zone
For more information see Drop in Activities
Open daily 10 am - 6 pm.
Last admission 4 pm.
Monday 26th - Drop in activities in the Zany Zone
Time: 11am - 4pm
Cost: Normal admission fee plus £1 extra per child.
Please note that children 2 years and up will be charged for the Zany Zone
For more information see Drop in Activities
August 2010
Open daily 10 am - 6 pm.
Last admission 4 pm.
24th July - 31st August (local school holidays) - In addition to our hands-on exhibits there will be daily telescope tours and the new 'Materials' science show. These are included in your admission price.
- 3 Telescope Tours per day usually at 12pm, 2pm & 4pm
- 3 Science Shows per day usually at 11am, 1pm & 3pm
We also have additional drop-in activities in the Zany Zone (small additional charge of £1 per child) and fantastic pre-booked half day and full day workshops for children - see below for dates, times and prices.
Please note that the number and times of telescope tours and science shows may vary.
Monday 2nd - Drop in activities in the Zany Zone
Time: 11am - 4pm
Cost: Normal admission fee plus £1 extra per child.
Please note that children 2 years and up will be charged for the Zany Zone
For more information see Drop in Activities
Tuesday 3rd - 'Living in Space' - half day workshops
Men and women regularly fly into space nowadays, living and working there for long periods. You will learn how we keep them alive and what it is like to live in space. Before you leave, you will prepare your own space meal.
Time: 10.30am - 1pm or 2pm - 4.30pm
Cost: £8.95 per child - this is for the workshop ONLY - BOOKING ESSENTIAL
Age: 6 + years
Notes for Parents/Guardians: before booking your child/children on to a workshop please consult the 'Notes for Parents/Guardians.' This will give you more information about how to book.
Please note whilst we endeavour to include all activities mentioned in the description, some activities may vary on the day.
Wednesday 4th - 'Living and working in Space' full day workshop
Find out how to stay alive and even walk in space. Make your own space meal, discover what it would be like to wear a spacesuit and how astronauts carry out their work
Time: 10.30pm - 4pm
Cost: £19.95 per child - this is for the workshop ONLY - BOOKING ESSENTIAL
Age: 9 + years.
Notes for Parents/Guardians: Before booking your child/children on to a workshop please read the 'Notes for Parents/Guardians.' This will give you more information about how to book.
Please note whilst we endeavour to include all activities mentioned in the descriptions, some may vary on the day.
Monday 9th - Drop in activities in the Zany Zone
Time: 11am - 4pm
Cost: Normal admission fee plus £1 extra per child.
Please note that children 2 years and up will be charged for the Zany Zone
For more information see Drop in Activities
Tuesday 10th - 'Rocketry' half day workshops
Learn all about the mighty rockets that launch robot explorers to the planets and fly men and women into space. Make and launch your own balloon and water powered rockets.
Time: 10.30am - 1pm or 2pm - 4.30pm
Cost: £8.95 per child - this is for the workshop ONLY - BOOKING ESSENTIAL
Age: 6 + years
Notes for Parents/Guardians: Before booking your child/children on to a workshop please read the 'Notes for Parents/Guardians.' This will give you more information about how to book.
Please note whilst we endeavour to include all activities mentioned in the descriptions, some may vary on the day.
Wednesday 11th - 'Rocketry' full day workshop
The rocket is the only engine that will work in space. To-day you will make and launch a water-powered rocket which you will float back to Earth by parachute. You will also make and race simple rocket powered cars.
Time: 10.30pm - 4pm
Cost: £19.95 per child - this is for the workshop ONLY - BOOKING ESSENTIAL
Age: 9 + years.
Notes for Parents/Guardians: Before booking your child/children on to a workshop please read the 'Notes for Parents/Guardians.' This will give you more information about how to book.
Please note whilst we endeavour to include all activities mentioned in the descriptions, some may vary on the day.
Thursday 12th - 'Paper Making' half day workshops
Recycle rubbish into some fabulous hand-made paper. Used paper is pulped, then pressed back into sheets making fantastically unique and colourful hand-made paper.
Time: 10.30am - 1pm or 2pm - 4.30pm.
Cost: £8.95 per child
Age: 6 + years - this is for the workshop ONLY - BOOKING ESSENTIAL
Notes for Parents/Guardians: Before booking your child/children on to a workshop please read the 'Notes for Parents/Guardians.' This will give you more information about how to book.
Please note whilst we endeavour to include all activities mentioned on the descriptions, some may vary on the day.
Saturday 14th - Perseids Shooting Star Evening
Join us for a cheese and wine evening before trying to spot some meteors.
The Perseids meteor shower occurs as Earth passes through the outskirts of a cloud of debris from the comet Swift-Tuttle. The dust and bits of rock left behind burn up if they enter the earth's atmosphere, leaving a bright stream. These burning streams are also known as shooting stars.
The evening aims to be both informal and informative. It includes a guest speaker and an opportunity to look though The Centre's historic telescopes (weather permitting). If the weather is unsuitable on themed evenings, the talk will go ahead regardless and a comprehensive tour of the telescopes will replace viewing. Alongside the staff are members of a local astronomical society who are also there to help answer any questions you may have.
For more information see Themed Evenings
Numbers are limited to 80 people, so book early to secure your place.
Time: 7pm - 11pm
Cost: £17.50 per person
Monday 16th - Drop in activities in the Zany Zone
Time: 11am - 4pm
Cost: Normal admission fee plus £1 extra per child.
Please note that children 2 years and up will be charged for the Zany Zone
For more information see Drop in Activities
Tuesday 17th - 'The Family of the Sun' half day workshops
Today you will learn about the planets and bits and pieces that travel around our Sun. You will design and make a Martian Lander to land an egg safely on its surface and you will test your design by dropping it from a great height.
Time: 10.30am - 1pm or 2pm - 4.30pm.
Cost: £8.95 per child - this is for the workshop ONLY - BOOKING ESSENTIAL
Age: 6 + years
Notes for Parents/Guardians: Before booking your child/children on to a workshop please read the 'Notes for Parents/Guardians.' This will give you more information about how to book.
Please note whilst we endeavour to include all activities mentioned in the descriptions, some may vary on the day.
Wednesday 18th - 'Space and Astronomy' full day workshop
A huge subject made fun! Make your own telescope and comet as well as designing and building your own spacecraft to land safely on Mars. Learn about the planets and even look at the Sun through The Centre's very special solar telescope (weather permitting).
Time: 10.30pm - 4pm
Cost: £19.95 per child - this is for the workshop ONLY - BOOKING ESSENTIAL
Age: 9 + years.
Notes for Parents/Guardians: Before booking your child/children on to a workshop please read the 'Notes for Parents/Guardians.' This will give you more information about how to book.
Please note whilst we endeavour to include all activities mentioned in the descriptions, some may vary on the day.
Thursday 19th - 'Bug Hunt' half day workshops
Bugs are everywhere, especially in our wood! But what do they look like under a microscope? Come and find out. Good footwear is essential.
Time: 10.30am - 1pm or 2pm - 4.30pm.
Cost: £8.95 per child - this is for the workshop ONLY - BOOKING ESSENTIAL
Age: 6 + years
Please note whilst we endeavour to include all activities mentioned on the descriptions, some may vary on the day.
Monday 23rd - Drop in activities in the Zany Zone
Time: 11am - 4pm
Cost: Normal admission fee plus £1 extra per child.
Please note that children 2 years and up will be charged for the Zany Zone
For more information see Drop in Activities
Tuesday 24th - 'Cool Chemistry' full day workshop
Find out what makes things fizz, bang and pop in some crazy chemistry experiments.
Time: 10.30pm - 4pm
Cost: £19.95 per child - this is for the workshop ONLY - BOOKING ESSENTIAL
Age: 6 + years.
Notes for Parents/Guardians: Before booking your child/children on to a workshop please read the 'Notes for Parents/Guardians.' This will give you more information about how to book.
Please note whilst we endeavour to include all activities mentioned in the descriptions, some may vary on the day.
Wednesday 25th - 'Captivating Chemistry' full day workshop
Chemistry is definitely fun, especially when trying to find out what does with a bang! Come and try some crazy chemistry experiments.
Time: 10.30pm - 4pm
Cost: £19.95 per child - this is for the workshop ONLY - BOOKING ESSENTIAL
Age: 9 + years.
Notes for Parents/Guardians: Before booking your child/children on to a workshop please read the 'Notes for Parents/Guardians.' This will give you more information about how to book.
Please note whilst we endeavour to include all activities mentioned in the descriptions, some may vary on the day.
Thursday 26th - 'K'NEX Construction' half-day workshops
Design and build a model using a K'nex construction kit. We are sorry but on this occassion you will not be able to take your model with you.
Time: 10.30pm - 1pm or 2pm - 4.30pm
Cost: £8.95 per child - this is for the workshop ONLY - BOOKING ESSENTIAL
Age: 6 + years.
Notes for Parents/Guardians: Before booking your child/children on to a workshop please read the 'Notes for Parents/Guardians.' This will give you more information about how to book.
Please note whilst we endeavour to include all activities mentioned in the descriptions, some may vary on the day.
Open daily 10 am - 6 pm.
Last admission 4 pm.
24th July - 31st August (local school holidays) - In addition to our hands-on exhibits there will be daily telescope tours and the new 'Materials' science show. These are included in your admission price.
- 3 Telescope Tours per day usually at 12pm, 2pm & 4pm
- 3 Science Shows per day usually at 11am, 1pm & 3pm
We also have additional drop-in activities in the Zany Zone (small additional charge of £1 per child) and fantastic pre-booked half day and full day workshops for children - see below for dates, times and prices.
Please note that the number and times of telescope tours and science shows may vary.
Monday 2nd - Drop in activities in the Zany Zone
Time: 11am - 4pm
Cost: Normal admission fee plus £1 extra per child.
Please note that children 2 years and up will be charged for the Zany Zone
For more information see Drop in Activities
Tuesday 3rd - 'Living in Space' - half day workshops
Men and women regularly fly into space nowadays, living and working there for long periods. You will learn how we keep them alive and what it is like to live in space. Before you leave, you will prepare your own space meal.
Time: 10.30am - 1pm or 2pm - 4.30pm
Cost: £8.95 per child - this is for the workshop ONLY - BOOKING ESSENTIAL
Age: 6 + years
Notes for Parents/Guardians: before booking your child/children on to a workshop please consult the 'Notes for Parents/Guardians.' This will give you more information about how to book.
Please note whilst we endeavour to include all activities mentioned in the description, some activities may vary on the day.
Wednesday 4th - 'Living and working in Space' full day workshop
Find out how to stay alive and even walk in space. Make your own space meal, discover what it would be like to wear a spacesuit and how astronauts carry out their work
Time: 10.30pm - 4pm
Cost: £19.95 per child - this is for the workshop ONLY - BOOKING ESSENTIAL
Age: 9 + years.
Notes for Parents/Guardians: Before booking your child/children on to a workshop please read the 'Notes for Parents/Guardians.' This will give you more information about how to book.
Please note whilst we endeavour to include all activities mentioned in the descriptions, some may vary on the day.
Monday 9th - Drop in activities in the Zany Zone
Time: 11am - 4pm
Cost: Normal admission fee plus £1 extra per child.
Please note that children 2 years and up will be charged for the Zany Zone
For more information see Drop in Activities
Tuesday 10th - 'Rocketry' half day workshops
Learn all about the mighty rockets that launch robot explorers to the planets and fly men and women into space. Make and launch your own balloon and water powered rockets.
Time: 10.30am - 1pm or 2pm - 4.30pm
Cost: £8.95 per child - this is for the workshop ONLY - BOOKING ESSENTIAL
Age: 6 + years
Notes for Parents/Guardians: Before booking your child/children on to a workshop please read the 'Notes for Parents/Guardians.' This will give you more information about how to book.
Please note whilst we endeavour to include all activities mentioned in the descriptions, some may vary on the day.
Wednesday 11th - 'Rocketry' full day workshop
The rocket is the only engine that will work in space. To-day you will make and launch a water-powered rocket which you will float back to Earth by parachute. You will also make and race simple rocket powered cars.
Time: 10.30pm - 4pm
Cost: £19.95 per child - this is for the workshop ONLY - BOOKING ESSENTIAL
Age: 9 + years.
Notes for Parents/Guardians: Before booking your child/children on to a workshop please read the 'Notes for Parents/Guardians.' This will give you more information about how to book.
Please note whilst we endeavour to include all activities mentioned in the descriptions, some may vary on the day.
Thursday 12th - 'Paper Making' half day workshops
Recycle rubbish into some fabulous hand-made paper. Used paper is pulped, then pressed back into sheets making fantastically unique and colourful hand-made paper.
Time: 10.30am - 1pm or 2pm - 4.30pm.
Cost: £8.95 per child
Age: 6 + years - this is for the workshop ONLY - BOOKING ESSENTIAL
Notes for Parents/Guardians: Before booking your child/children on to a workshop please read the 'Notes for Parents/Guardians.' This will give you more information about how to book.
Please note whilst we endeavour to include all activities mentioned on the descriptions, some may vary on the day.
Saturday 14th - Perseids Shooting Star Evening
Join us for a cheese and wine evening before trying to spot some meteors.
The Perseids meteor shower occurs as Earth passes through the outskirts of a cloud of debris from the comet Swift-Tuttle. The dust and bits of rock left behind burn up if they enter the earth's atmosphere, leaving a bright stream. These burning streams are also known as shooting stars.
The evening aims to be both informal and informative. It includes a guest speaker and an opportunity to look though The Centre's historic telescopes (weather permitting). If the weather is unsuitable on themed evenings, the talk will go ahead regardless and a comprehensive tour of the telescopes will replace viewing. Alongside the staff are members of a local astronomical society who are also there to help answer any questions you may have.
For more information see Themed Evenings
Numbers are limited to 80 people, so book early to secure your place.
Time: 7pm - 11pm
Cost: £17.50 per person
Monday 16th - Drop in activities in the Zany Zone
Time: 11am - 4pm
Cost: Normal admission fee plus £1 extra per child.
Please note that children 2 years and up will be charged for the Zany Zone
For more information see Drop in Activities
Tuesday 17th - 'The Family of the Sun' half day workshops
Today you will learn about the planets and bits and pieces that travel around our Sun. You will design and make a Martian Lander to land an egg safely on its surface and you will test your design by dropping it from a great height.
Time: 10.30am - 1pm or 2pm - 4.30pm.
Cost: £8.95 per child - this is for the workshop ONLY - BOOKING ESSENTIAL
Age: 6 + years
Notes for Parents/Guardians: Before booking your child/children on to a workshop please read the 'Notes for Parents/Guardians.' This will give you more information about how to book.
Please note whilst we endeavour to include all activities mentioned in the descriptions, some may vary on the day.
Wednesday 18th - 'Space and Astronomy' full day workshop
A huge subject made fun! Make your own telescope and comet as well as designing and building your own spacecraft to land safely on Mars. Learn about the planets and even look at the Sun through The Centre's very special solar telescope (weather permitting).
Time: 10.30pm - 4pm
Cost: £19.95 per child - this is for the workshop ONLY - BOOKING ESSENTIAL
Age: 9 + years.
Notes for Parents/Guardians: Before booking your child/children on to a workshop please read the 'Notes for Parents/Guardians.' This will give you more information about how to book.
Please note whilst we endeavour to include all activities mentioned in the descriptions, some may vary on the day.
Thursday 19th - 'Bug Hunt' half day workshops
Bugs are everywhere, especially in our wood! But what do they look like under a microscope? Come and find out. Good footwear is essential.
Time: 10.30am - 1pm or 2pm - 4.30pm.
Cost: £8.95 per child - this is for the workshop ONLY - BOOKING ESSENTIAL
Age: 6 + years
Please note whilst we endeavour to include all activities mentioned on the descriptions, some may vary on the day.
Monday 23rd - Drop in activities in the Zany Zone
Time: 11am - 4pm
Cost: Normal admission fee plus £1 extra per child.
Please note that children 2 years and up will be charged for the Zany Zone
For more information see Drop in Activities
Tuesday 24th - 'Cool Chemistry' full day workshop
Find out what makes things fizz, bang and pop in some crazy chemistry experiments.
Time: 10.30pm - 4pm
Cost: £19.95 per child - this is for the workshop ONLY - BOOKING ESSENTIAL
Age: 6 + years.
Notes for Parents/Guardians: Before booking your child/children on to a workshop please read the 'Notes for Parents/Guardians.' This will give you more information about how to book.
Please note whilst we endeavour to include all activities mentioned in the descriptions, some may vary on the day.
Wednesday 25th - 'Captivating Chemistry' full day workshop
Chemistry is definitely fun, especially when trying to find out what does with a bang! Come and try some crazy chemistry experiments.
Time: 10.30pm - 4pm
Cost: £19.95 per child - this is for the workshop ONLY - BOOKING ESSENTIAL
Age: 9 + years.
Notes for Parents/Guardians: Before booking your child/children on to a workshop please read the 'Notes for Parents/Guardians.' This will give you more information about how to book.
Please note whilst we endeavour to include all activities mentioned in the descriptions, some may vary on the day.
Thursday 26th - 'K'NEX Construction' half-day workshops
Design and build a model using a K'nex construction kit. We are sorry but on this occassion you will not be able to take your model with you.
Time: 10.30pm - 1pm or 2pm - 4.30pm
Cost: £8.95 per child - this is for the workshop ONLY - BOOKING ESSENTIAL
Age: 6 + years.
Notes for Parents/Guardians: Before booking your child/children on to a workshop please read the 'Notes for Parents/Guardians.' This will give you more information about how to book.
Please note whilst we endeavour to include all activities mentioned in the descriptions, some may vary on the day.
September 2010
Open daily 10 am - 6 pm.
Last admission 4 pm.
Friday, Saturday & Sunday 3rd/4th/5th - Astronomy Festival weekend
For full details see Astronomy Festival
Tuesdays 7th/14th/21st/28th - Autumn Star Search 4 week evening course
This course is designed to help you recognise the constellations so you will be able to navigate your way around the night sky. It incorporates lectures in one of the telescope domes with looking at the whole sky using the naked eye (weather permitting).
Time: 7.30pm-9.30pm
Cost: £48 for 4 evenings. BOOKING ESSENTIAL
For more information see Astronomy Courses
Thursdays 16th September - 2nd December - Astronomy and Space 12 week evening course for beginners
This course is suitable for those with little or no knowledge of the subject and introduces astronomy at a basic level. On this course you may get the opportunity to look through The Centre's historic telescopes (weather and time permitting).
Time: 7.30pm-9.30pm
Cost: £120 for 12 evenings (with the option of a 13th week at no extra cost). BOOKING ESSENTIAL
For more information see Astronomy Courses
Saturday 18th - Open Evening
Time: 6.30pm - 11pm
Cost: Normal admission charge
For more information see Open Evenings
Open daily 10 am - 6 pm.
Last admission 4 pm.
Friday, Saturday & Sunday 3rd/4th/5th - Astronomy Festival weekend
For full details see Astronomy Festival
Tuesdays 7th/14th/21st/28th - Autumn Star Search 4 week evening course
This course is designed to help you recognise the constellations so you will be able to navigate your way around the night sky. It incorporates lectures in one of the telescope domes with looking at the whole sky using the naked eye (weather permitting).
Time: 7.30pm-9.30pm
Cost: £48 for 4 evenings. BOOKING ESSENTIAL
For more information see Astronomy Courses
Thursdays 16th September - 2nd December - Astronomy and Space 12 week evening course for beginners
This course is suitable for those with little or no knowledge of the subject and introduces astronomy at a basic level. On this course you may get the opportunity to look through The Centre's historic telescopes (weather and time permitting).
Time: 7.30pm-9.30pm
Cost: £120 for 12 evenings (with the option of a 13th week at no extra cost). BOOKING ESSENTIAL
For more information see Astronomy Courses
Saturday 18th - Open Evening
Time: 6.30pm - 11pm
Cost: Normal admission charge
For more information see Open Evenings
October 2010
Open daily 10 am - 5 pm.
Last admission 3 pm.
Saturday 16th - Open Evening
Time: 6.30pm - 11pm
Cost: Normal entrance fee
For more information see Open Evenings
Saturday 23rd - Open Evening
Time: 6.30pm - 11pm
Cost: Normal entrance fee
For more information see Open Evenings
Monday 25th - Drop in activities in the Zany Zone
Time: 11am - 4pm
Cost: Normal admission fee plus £1 extra per child.
Please note that children 2 years and up will be charged for the Zany Zone
For more information see Drop in Activities
Tuesday 26th - 'Eyes on the Universe' half day workshops
Find out how we study the heavens around us. Make and use your own telescope and sundial as well as learning how to use the large telescopes on site.
Time: 10.30am - 1pm or 2pm - 4.30pm
Cost: £8.95 per child - this is for the workshop ONLY - BOOKING ESSENTIAL
Age: 6 + years.
Notes for Parents/Guardians: Before booking your child/children on to a workshop please read the 'Notes for Parents/Guardians.' This will give you more information about how to book.
Please note whilst we endeavour to include all activities mentioned in the descriptions, some may vary on the day
Wednesday 27th - Twilight Special 'Earth and Beyond' full day workshop
Spend an afternoon carrying out some fascinating experiments learning about volcanoes, earthquakes, ice caps and more before looking through The Centre's giant telescopes (weather permitting).
Time: 2pm - 8pm
Cost: £19.95 per child - this is for the workshop ONLY - BOOKING ESSENTIAL
Age: 9+ years.
Notes for Parents/Guardians: Before booking your child/children on to a workshop please read the 'Notes for Parents/Guardians.' This will give you more information about how to book.
Please note whilst we endeavour to include all activities mentioned in the descriptions, some may vary on the day
Saturday 30th - Family Open Evening with optional Halloween drop-in activities
Among the activities you can make your own flying bats and screaming balloons as well as decorating goody bags with spooktacular pictures.
Time: 6.30pm - 11pm
Cost: SPECIAL OFFER 1 child FREE with every paying adult. There will be a charge of £1 per child for the Halloween activities.
Please note that children 2 years and up will be charged for the activities
For more information see Open Evenings
Open daily 10 am - 5 pm.
Last admission 3 pm.
Saturday 16th - Open Evening
Time: 6.30pm - 11pm
Cost: Normal entrance fee
For more information see Open Evenings
Saturday 23rd - Open Evening
Time: 6.30pm - 11pm
Cost: Normal entrance fee
For more information see Open Evenings
Monday 25th - Drop in activities in the Zany Zone
Time: 11am - 4pm
Cost: Normal admission fee plus £1 extra per child.
Please note that children 2 years and up will be charged for the Zany Zone
For more information see Drop in Activities
Tuesday 26th - 'Eyes on the Universe' half day workshops
Find out how we study the heavens around us. Make and use your own telescope and sundial as well as learning how to use the large telescopes on site.
Time: 10.30am - 1pm or 2pm - 4.30pm
Cost: £8.95 per child - this is for the workshop ONLY - BOOKING ESSENTIAL
Age: 6 + years.
Notes for Parents/Guardians: Before booking your child/children on to a workshop please read the 'Notes for Parents/Guardians.' This will give you more information about how to book.
Please note whilst we endeavour to include all activities mentioned in the descriptions, some may vary on the day
Wednesday 27th - Twilight Special 'Earth and Beyond' full day workshop
Spend an afternoon carrying out some fascinating experiments learning about volcanoes, earthquakes, ice caps and more before looking through The Centre's giant telescopes (weather permitting).
Time: 2pm - 8pm
Cost: £19.95 per child - this is for the workshop ONLY - BOOKING ESSENTIAL
Age: 9+ years.
Notes for Parents/Guardians: Before booking your child/children on to a workshop please read the 'Notes for Parents/Guardians.' This will give you more information about how to book.
Please note whilst we endeavour to include all activities mentioned in the descriptions, some may vary on the day
Saturday 30th - Family Open Evening with optional Halloween drop-in activities
Among the activities you can make your own flying bats and screaming balloons as well as decorating goody bags with spooktacular pictures.
Time: 6.30pm - 11pm
Cost: SPECIAL OFFER 1 child FREE with every paying adult. There will be a charge of £1 per child for the Halloween activities.
Please note that children 2 years and up will be charged for the activities
For more information see Open Evenings
November 2010
Open daily 10 am - 5 pm.
Last admission 3 pm.
Saturday 6th November - Comets & Curry
Come and enjoy a warming curry and a glass of wine before trying to spot an impressive shooting star or two. Vegetarian options available.
Look for shooting stars with long bright trails which are associated with the Taurids meteor shower. This annual event marks the time when the Earth passes through the dust trail of comet Encke. The debris left behind by comet Enke is the largest in the inner solar system and it takes several weeks for the Earth to pass through it giving an extended period of activity.
The evening aims to be both informal and informative. It includes a guest speaker and an opportunity to look though The Centre's historic telescopes (weather permitting). If the weather is unsuitable on themed evenings, the talk will go ahead regardless and a comprehensive tour of the telescopes will replace viewing. Alongside the staff are members of a local astronomical society who are also there to help answer any questions you may have.
For more information see Themed Evenings
Time: 7pm - 11pm
Cost: £22.50
Numbers are limited to 80 people, so book early to secure your place.
Saturday 13th - Open Evening
Time: 6.30pm - 11pm
Cost: Normal entrance fee
For more information see Open Evenings
Open daily 10 am - 5 pm.
Last admission 3 pm.
Saturday 6th November - Comets & Curry
Come and enjoy a warming curry and a glass of wine before trying to spot an impressive shooting star or two. Vegetarian options available.
Look for shooting stars with long bright trails which are associated with the Taurids meteor shower. This annual event marks the time when the Earth passes through the dust trail of comet Encke. The debris left behind by comet Enke is the largest in the inner solar system and it takes several weeks for the Earth to pass through it giving an extended period of activity.
The evening aims to be both informal and informative. It includes a guest speaker and an opportunity to look though The Centre's historic telescopes (weather permitting). If the weather is unsuitable on themed evenings, the talk will go ahead regardless and a comprehensive tour of the telescopes will replace viewing. Alongside the staff are members of a local astronomical society who are also there to help answer any questions you may have.
For more information see Themed Evenings
Time: 7pm - 11pm
Cost: £22.50
Numbers are limited to 80 people, so book early to secure your place.
Saturday 13th - Open Evening
Time: 6.30pm - 11pm
Cost: Normal entrance fee
For more information see Open Evenings
December 2010
Open weekends of 4th / 5th and 11th / 12th.
10 am - 5 pm. Last admission 3 pm.
Saturday 11th - Geminids Meteor Shower Open Evening
Time: 6.30pm - 11pm
Cost: Normal entrance fee
For more information see Open Evenings
Saturday/Sunday 11th/12th - Christmas Special Weekend
Your final opportunity this season to visit the Centre during the daytime. Spectacular science shows to entertain the whole family and an opportunity to shop for stocking fillers and Christmas gifts in our fantastic shop.
Open weekends of 4th / 5th and 11th / 12th.
10 am - 5 pm. Last admission 3 pm.
Saturday 11th - Geminids Meteor Shower Open Evening
Time: 6.30pm - 11pm
Cost: Normal entrance fee
For more information see Open Evenings
Saturday/Sunday 11th/12th - Christmas Special Weekend
Your final opportunity this season to visit the Centre during the daytime. Spectacular science shows to entertain the whole family and an opportunity to shop for stocking fillers and Christmas gifts in our fantastic shop.