The BBC Sky at Night team have filmed the whole of the next episode here at The Observatory Science ...
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14th May 2013 11:40
We have the following seasonal, part time vacancies:
Weekend assistant
Weekday assistant
Job de...
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29th Apr 2013 18:17
On Friday 12th April The Centre will be the venue for an astronomy themed Teacher Training Workshop ...
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4th Apr 2013 13:46






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
November 2012
Saturday 24th - Open Evening
Time: 6.30pm - 11pm
Cost: Normal admission price
For more information see Open Evenings
December 2012
Open weekends ONLY 1st/2nd and 8th/9th
10am - 5pm last admission 3pm
Friday 14th - Open Evening for the Geminids Meteor Shower
Time: 6.30pm - 11pm
Cost: Normal admission price
For more information see Open Evenings
Saturday 24th - Open Evening
Time: 6.30pm - 11pm
Cost: Normal admission price
For more information see Open Evenings
December 2012
Open weekends ONLY 1st/2nd and 8th/9th
10am - 5pm last admission 3pm
Friday 14th - Open Evening for the Geminids Meteor Shower
Time: 6.30pm - 11pm
Cost: Normal admission price
For more information see Open Evenings
January 2013Open weekends 12th & 13th and 19th & 20th
Open 7 days per week from 26th
10 am - 5 pm. Last admission 3 pm.
Friday 11th AND Saturday 12th - Open Evenings for BBC Stargazing LIVE
Time: 6.30pm - 11pm
Cost: Normal admission price
For more information see Open Evenings
Open daily 10 am - 5 pm.
Last admission 3 pm.
*NEW* Tuesdays 5th/12th/19th/26th, March 5th/12th - 6 week evening course "Further Astronomy"
This six-week course builds on the foundation provided by introductory courses and aims to provide a good overview of modern astronomy by describing how scientific methods are used to discover the kinds of astronomical objects that exist and how and why they evolve throughout their lives.
Time: 7.30pm - 9.30pm
Cost: £75 for 6 evenings BOOKING ESSENTIAL
Saturday 16th February - Sunday 24th February (local half term school holidays)
In addition to the interactive hands-on exhibits there will be daily telescope tours and spectacular science shows. These are included in your admission price.
- Telescope Tours usually at 12pm, 2pm & 4pm
- Spectacular science shows 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.
Friday 15th - Open Evening: Asteroid Watch
Near Earth Asteroid 2012DA14 will pass between Earth and the Moon travelling rapidly from the southern evening sky to the northern morning sky. It should be visible through the telescopes.
Time: 6.30pm - 11pm
Cost: Normal admission price
For more information see Open Evenings
Saturday 16th - Open Evening
Time: 6.30pm - 11pm
Cost: Normal admission price
For more information see Open Evenings
Monday 18th - 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 19th - 'Curious about Chemistry' half day workshops
Come and have a go at some exciting chemistry experiments.
Time: 10.30am - 1pm for 6-9 years and 2pm - 4.30pm for 9+ years
Cost: £9.95 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.
*NEW* Wednesday 20th - 'Rocket to the Moon' Twilight special.
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. All this before you have a look through the historic telescopes at the Moon itself! (weather permitting).
Time: 1pm - 7pm
Cost: £20.95 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 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.
Thursday 21st -'A Hearty Work Out!' half day workshops
You will be learning all about the heart and how it keeps you alive! You will also 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 chocolates for a belated Valentine's treat.
Time: 10.30am- 1pm; 2pm-4.30pm
Cost: £9.95 per child - this is for the workshop ONLY - BOOKING ESSENTIAL
Age: 6 + years
Saturday 23rd - Secial Offer Open Evening
Time: 6.30pm - 11pm
Cost: SPECIAL OFFER 1 child admitted FREE with every full paying adult
For more information see Open Evenings
March 2013
Open daily 10 am - 5 pm.
Last admission 3 pm.
Wednesdays 6th/13th/20th/27th - 4 week evening course 'Spring Star Search'
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: £55 for 4 evenings. BOOKING ESSENTIAL
For more information see Astronomy Courses
Saturday 9th - Open Evening
Time: 6.30pm - 11pm
Cost: Normal admission price
For more information see Open Evenings
Saturday 16th and Sunday 17th - 'Activity Weekend'
Come and join us for a Family Fun Activity Weekend to celebrate National Science and Engineering week.
More details to follow
Time: 10am - 5pm
Cost: Normal admission price
Saturday 16th - Family Open Evening for National Science and Engineering Week
Time: 6.30pm - 11pm
Cost: 1 child admitted FREE with every full paying adult
For more information see Open Evenings
Friday 29th March - Sunday 14th 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.
- Telescope Tours usually at 12pm, 2pm & 4pm
- Superheroes of Science Show 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 29th/30th/31st/1st April - 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.
Open daily 10 am - 5 pm.
Last admission 3 pm.
Wednesdays 6th/13th/20th/27th - 4 week evening course 'Spring Star Search'
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: £55 for 4 evenings. BOOKING ESSENTIAL
For more information see Astronomy Courses
Saturday 9th - Open Evening
Time: 6.30pm - 11pm
Cost: Normal admission price
For more information see Open Evenings
Saturday 16th and Sunday 17th - 'Activity Weekend'
Come and join us for a Family Fun Activity Weekend to celebrate National Science and Engineering week.
More details to follow
Time: 10am - 5pm
Cost: Normal admission price
Saturday 16th - Family Open Evening for National Science and Engineering Week
Time: 6.30pm - 11pm
Cost: 1 child admitted FREE with every full paying adult
For more information see Open Evenings
Friday 29th March - Sunday 14th 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.
- Telescope Tours usually at 12pm, 2pm & 4pm
- Superheroes of Science Show 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 29th/30th/31st/1st April - 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.
Open daily 10 am - 6 pm.
Last admission 4 pm.
Saturday 6th - Open Evening
Time: 8pm - 12.30am
Cost: Normal admission price
For more information see Open Evenings
Monday 8th - 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 9th - 'Man in the Moon' half day workshops
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: £9.95 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 10th - 'The Mysterious Moon' Twilight Special workshop
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 hopefully examine some real Moon rock. You will also get to look through the giant telescopes (weather permitting) not necessarily at the Moon though because you will find out out exactly why the Moon is so mysterious and why sometimes you cannot see it at all in the nightl!
Time: 2pm - 8pm
Cost: £20.95 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 11th - '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: £9.95 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.
Friday 17th - Open Evening for the Culture 24 'Museums at Night' weekend
Time: 8pm - 12.30am
Cost: Normal admission price
For more information see Open Evenings
Saturday 18th - Special Cheese and Wine evening for the Culture 24 'Museums at Night' weekend
Join us for a cheese and wine supper to help celebrate the Culture 24 'Museums at Night' initiative. This 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, the evening 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, so book early to secure your place.
Time: 7.30pm - 12midnight
Cost: £18.95 per person.
Saturday 25th - Sunday 2nd June (local half term school holidays)
In addition to our hands-on exhibits there will be daily telescope tours and a Fantastic Science Show. These are included in your admission price.
- Telescope Tours usually at 12pm, 2pm & 4pm
- Science Show 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.
Monday 27th - 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
*NEW* Tuesday 28th - 'What's up with the Weather?' half day workshops
Learn all about the weather through fun, interactive experiments and activities, including making your own thunder clap and windmill, watching a lightning bolt generated by our very own Van der Graaf generator, making clouds and tornados plus other exciting demonstrations. This is a full on interactive workshop, so be prepared to keep busy!
Time: 10.30am - 1pm and 2pm - 4.30pm
Cost: £9.95 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 29th - 'Car Power' half day workshops
Design and build your own model car and then see what can power it along - gravity, balloon, propeller or solar panels.
Time: 10.30am - 1pm for 6-9 years and 2pm - 4.30pm for 9+ years
Cost: £9.95 per child - this is for the workshop ONLY - BOOKING ESSENTIAL
Age: 6-9 years MORNING ONLY; 9+ years AFTERNOON ONLY
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.
July 2013
Open daily 10 am - 6 pm.
Last admission 4 pm.
Saturday 13th - 'An Evening with the Herschel Quartet'
We are proud to present another evening of classical music and astronomy! Come and enjoy the fabulous atmosphere as The Herschel Quartet play inspirational music in one of the historic telescope domes. A buffet will be served during the interval and weather permitting, viewing will take place through the historic telescopes following the concert.
This will be a tremendous mix of science and the arts which in Herschel's day was not uncommon. William Herschel was a German born British astronomer and composer. He composed 24 symphonies and among other things discovered Uranus.
For more information and the programme for the evening see Themed Evenings
Numbers are limited, so book early to secure your place.
Time: 7.15pm - midnight
Cost: £30 per person
Thursday 25th July - Monday 2nd September (local school summer holidays)
In addition to our hands-on exhibits there will be daily telescope tours and a Fantastic Science Show. These are included in your admission price.
- Telescope Tours usually at 12pm, 2pm & 4pm
- Science Show 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.
Monday 29th - 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 30th - '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: £9.95 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.
Tuesday 30th - 'Arty Stars and Planets' - half day workshops
Be craft 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 or 2pm - 4.30pm
Cost: £9.95 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.
Open daily 10 am - 6 pm.
Last admission 4 pm.
Saturday 13th - 'An Evening with the Herschel Quartet'
We are proud to present another evening of classical music and astronomy! Come and enjoy the fabulous atmosphere as The Herschel Quartet play inspirational music in one of the historic telescope domes. A buffet will be served during the interval and weather permitting, viewing will take place through the historic telescopes following the concert.
This will be a tremendous mix of science and the arts which in Herschel's day was not uncommon. William Herschel was a German born British astronomer and composer. He composed 24 symphonies and among other things discovered Uranus.
For more information and the programme for the evening see Themed Evenings
Numbers are limited, so book early to secure your place.
Time: 7.15pm - midnight
Cost: £30 per person
Thursday 25th July - Monday 2nd September (local school summer holidays)
In addition to our hands-on exhibits there will be daily telescope tours and a Fantastic Science Show. These are included in your admission price.
- Telescope Tours usually at 12pm, 2pm & 4pm
- Science Show 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.
Monday 29th - 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 30th - '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: £9.95 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.
Tuesday 30th - 'Arty Stars and Planets' - half day workshops
Be craft 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 or 2pm - 4.30pm
Cost: £9.95 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.
Open daily 10 am - 6 pm.
Last admission 4 pm.
Thursday 25th July - Monday 2nd September (local school summer holidays)
In addition to our hands-on exhibits there will be daily telescope tours and science shows. These are included in your admission price.
- Telescope Tours usually at 12pm, 2pm & 4pm
- Science Show 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 5th - 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 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: £9.95 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 - '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: £9.95 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.
Friday 9th - 'Perseids Open Evening'
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 maximum number of shooting stars occurs around the 12th/13th August. Come along and try spotting a few meteors as well as looking through the historic telescopes (weather permitting). See Open Evenings for further details.
Time: 8pm - 12.30am
Cost: Normal admission price
For more information see Open Evenings
Saturday 10th - Perseids Shooting Star Evening
Do you want an extra special treat? Join us for a cheese and wine evening before trying to spot some of those meteors. This evening offers more than just the Open Evening of the previous night.
As mentioned before, 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.
This 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, so book early to secure your place.
Time: 7.30pm - 12 midnight
Cost: £18.95 per person
Monday 12th - 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 13th - 'The Family of the Sun' half day workshops
In this workshop 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: £9.95 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 - 'Sporty Science' half day workshop
Find out how the body reacts to exercise and what makes athletes so special. Come prepared to have fun in your sports gear!
Time: 10.30am - 1pm for 6-9 years and 2pm - 4.30pm for 9+ years
Cost: £9.95 per child - this is for the workshop ONLY - BOOKING ESSENTIAL
Age: 6-9 years MORNING ONLY; 9+ years AFTERNOON ONLY
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 15th - '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: £9.95 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 19th - 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
Find out what makes things fizz, bang and pop in some crazy chemistry experiments.
Time: 10.30pm - 4pm
Cost: £20.95 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 21st - '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: £20.95 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 22nd - '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: £9.95 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 2013
Open daily 10 am - 6 pm.
Last admission 4 pm.
Friday, Saturday & Sunday 6th/7th/8th - Astronomy Festival weekend
For full details see Astronomy Festival page
Mondays 16th/23rd/30th & October 7th - 4 week evening course 'Astrophotography for beginners'
Presented by our resident astro-imager, this course will introduce you to the world of Astrophotography. Learn how to capture and process images of the Moon, planets, nebulae and distant galaxies using webcams and digital SLRs.
Time: 8pm - 10pm
Cost: £75 (for four lectures)
For more information see Astronomy Courses
Tuesdays 17th September - 3rd December - 12 week evening course for beginners
'Astronomy and Space'
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: £130 for 12 evenings (with the option of a 13th week on 10th December at no extra cost).
For more information see Astronomy Courses
Saturday 21st - 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 6th/7th/8th - Astronomy Festival weekend
For full details see Astronomy Festival page
Mondays 16th/23rd/30th & October 7th - 4 week evening course 'Astrophotography for beginners'
Presented by our resident astro-imager, this course will introduce you to the world of Astrophotography. Learn how to capture and process images of the Moon, planets, nebulae and distant galaxies using webcams and digital SLRs.
Time: 8pm - 10pm
Cost: £75 (for four lectures)
For more information see Astronomy Courses
Tuesdays 17th September - 3rd December - 12 week evening course for beginners
'Astronomy and Space'
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: £130 for 12 evenings (with the option of a 13th week on 10th December at no extra cost).
For more information see Astronomy Courses
Saturday 21st - Open Evening
Time: 6.30pm - 11pm
Cost: Normal admission charge
For more information see Open Evenings
October 2013
Open daily 10 am - 5 pm.
Last admission 3 pm.
Saturday 26th October to Sunday 3rd November Local half term school holidays
In addition to our hands-on exhibits there will be Telescope Tours and Science Shows included in your admission price.
- Telescope Tours usually at 12pm, 2pm & 4pm
- Fantastic Science Show 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 workshops for children - see below for dates, times and prices.
Saturday 5th - Open Evening
Time: 6.30pm - 11pm
Cost: Normal entrance fee
For more information see Open Evenings
Thursdays 10th/17th/24th/31st - 4 week evening course 'Autumn Star Search'
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: £55 for 4 evenings. BOOKING ESSENTIAL
For more information see Astronomy Courses
Saturday 26th - 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 admitted FREE with every full 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
Monday 28th - 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 29th - '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: £9.95 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 30th - 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: £20.95 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. Please bring food and drink for an early supper and wear warm clothing.
Open daily 10 am - 5 pm.
Last admission 3 pm.
Saturday 26th October to Sunday 3rd November Local half term school holidays
In addition to our hands-on exhibits there will be Telescope Tours and Science Shows included in your admission price.
- Telescope Tours usually at 12pm, 2pm & 4pm
- Fantastic Science Show 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 workshops for children - see below for dates, times and prices.
Saturday 5th - Open Evening
Time: 6.30pm - 11pm
Cost: Normal entrance fee
For more information see Open Evenings
Thursdays 10th/17th/24th/31st - 4 week evening course 'Autumn Star Search'
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: £55 for 4 evenings. BOOKING ESSENTIAL
For more information see Astronomy Courses
Saturday 26th - 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 admitted FREE with every full 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
Monday 28th - 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 29th - '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: £9.95 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 30th - 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: £20.95 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. Please bring food and drink for an early supper and wear warm clothing.
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November 2013
Open daily 10 am - 5 pm
Last admission 3 pm.
Friday 2nd - Open Evening
Time: 6.30pm - 11pm
Cost: Normal entrance fee
For more information see Open Evenings
Friday 8th - Open Evening
Time: 6.30pm - 11pm
Cost: Normal entrance fee
For more information see Open Evenings
Saturday 9th November -'Comets and 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 - 11.30pm
Cost: £23.95
Numbers are limited to 80 people, so book early to secure your place.
Saturday 23rd - 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.
Friday 2nd - Open Evening
Time: 6.30pm - 11pm
Cost: Normal entrance fee
For more information see Open Evenings
Friday 8th - Open Evening
Time: 6.30pm - 11pm
Cost: Normal entrance fee
For more information see Open Evenings
Saturday 9th November -'Comets and 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 - 11.30pm
Cost: £23.95
Numbers are limited to 80 people, so book early to secure your place.
Saturday 23rd - Open Evening
Time: 6.30pm - 11pm
Cost: Normal entrance fee
For more information see Open Evenings
December 2013
Centre closed on weekdays from 2nd. Open weekend of 7th/8th only.
10 am - 5 pm. Last admission 3 pm.
The Centre is open on the weekend of the 30th November and 1st December then the 7th/8th December weekend is your final opportunity to visit The Centre this season during the daytime. This is a perfect opportunity to shop for stocking fillers and Christmas gifts in our fantastic shop. If you want to, you can come along to the shop only without paying an admission fee into The Centre.
Friday 13th - Open Evening for the Geminids Meteor Shower
Time: 6.30pm - 11pm
Cost: Normal entrance fee
For more information see Open Evenings
Centre closed on weekdays from 2nd. Open weekend of 7th/8th only.
10 am - 5 pm. Last admission 3 pm.
The Centre is open on the weekend of the 30th November and 1st December then the 7th/8th December weekend is your final opportunity to visit The Centre this season during the daytime. This is a perfect opportunity to shop for stocking fillers and Christmas gifts in our fantastic shop. If you want to, you can come along to the shop only without paying an admission fee into The Centre.
Friday 13th - Open Evening for the Geminids Meteor Shower
Time: 6.30pm - 11pm
Cost: Normal entrance fee
For more information see Open Evenings
