Christmas holidays are…long! We’re sure that after a week of munching, unwrapping and carol singing your brain will ache for information and your kids will be ready for the new experiences, some learning and lot’s of fun. And what can bring it all together better than a Space activity? Luckily, there are going to be many of those over the Christmas holidays!
So…for all things space-related head to:
Royal Observatory, Edinburgh
Often overlooked by the tourist guides, Royal Observatory is a must-go destination if you are visiting the Scottish capital on Christmas holidays. The observatory offers Winter public Astronomy evenings for the space enthusiasts of all ages. The one hour events include tour of the telescope dome and, weather permitting, stargazing! You will hear all about the science happening at the Royal observatory and will be able to ask questions about “life universe and everything”. The next public event is on Friday January 04. Don’t miss!
Scottish Dark Sky Observatory, Dalmellington
This amazing public observatory is located near the edge of the Galloway Forest Dark Sky Park that boasts some of the darkest skies in the UK. There will be plenty of opportunity for stargazing with Scottish Dark Sky Observatory this Christmas season.
Starwatching sessions will run from 8PM to 11PM on the following days: Dec 20,21, 22, Dec 27,28,29, Jan 3,4,5, Jan 10,11,12. See you there!
Jodrell Bank Discovery Centre
Jodrell Bank is going to have quite lengthy holidays. The Centre will be closed on December 17-26, December 31 and January 1. Special events and lectures will resume after the Christmas break. Meanwhile you can enjoy the regular exhibitions at Planet and Space Pavilions and admire the mighty Lowell telescope!
National Space Centre
This popular space museum will be open throughout the holiday season (closed on Dec 24,26 and Jan 1) with its regular exhibitions, activities and space shows.
If you are looking for a special one-off event, here are our top-picks:
- Space lates is a special after-hour activity that includes talks, crafts and astro-presentation. The event is suitable for general public and older children. The next space late is “Deep Space” on Saturday Jan 12.
- Are there Pink Floyd and Space loving grown-ups among us? The Space Centre’s Planetarium will be hosting the live performance Dark Side of the Moon by Darkside The Pink Floyd Show on Friday Jan 4 – Saturday Jan 5. Sounds interesting! The event is a tribute to Apollo 8 mission and its astronauts Frank F. Borman II, James L .Lovell Jr. and William A. Anders. Apollo 8 crew were the first people to see “the dark side of the Moon”! We hope to see it one day too!
Institute of Astronomy, University of Cambridge
If you like lecture-style presentations, try one of the Institute’s Wednesday Public Open Evenings. Each event includes a short lecture followed by observations. Check the topics of the upcoming public talks and choose the one that interests you the most!
The last event for this year will take place on December 19. The lectures will resume next year on January 09. No booking required!
Science Museum, London
Can you keep a secret? We love the Science Museum! Their regular exhibits are out of this World. And it’s absolutely free! For an extra-memorable time visit the Museum’s special exhibition called The Sun: living with our Star.
Please keep in mind that the Science Museum will be closed on December 24-26.
Royal Museums, Greenwich
Royal Observatory
- The Observatory’s Planetarium will delight its visitors with stargazing shows all Christmas season. For skywatching with a festive twist visit the Planetarium on Dec 1-23 to see a special show “Sky tonight live: Christmas stars”.
- SETI enthusiasts and fans of the 2016 science fiction movie Arrival would love this one! The screening of “Arrival” will take place at the Observatory on January 05 (6:45-9:15). The viewing will be followed by the astro talk about aliens, possibility of finding intelligent life and ways to communicate with our space neighbours. Parents, please bear in mind that the movie is rated 12A!
National Maritime Museum
If you appreciate Astrophotography, don’t miss Insight Investment Astronomy Photographer of the Year Exhibition at the National Maritime Museum.
Winchester Science Centre and Planetarium
The Science centre at Winchester is a great choice for a family day out! We really like that the Planetarium offers various “show environments” including “relaxed shows” for people with sensory sensitivity. Over the holidays the Centre will be open daily from 10am to 5pm with the exception of Christmas Day and Boxing Day.
Have an amazing Christmas holidays!
As always, if you have any questions or comments, please let out star dome team know!
And don’t forget to share your Christmas Space experience with our space dome blog readers!