Other-Worldly Fun At The Science Museum

Laura Reynolds
By Laura Reynolds Last edited 120 months ago
Other-Worldly Fun At The Science Museum

Learn about Svetlana Savitskaya, the first woman to space walk

Space fans and wannabe astronauts of all ages should head to the Science Museum's Beyond Earth festival this weekend. It's an opportunity to meet scientists and engineers who are researching all aspects of space. You can also hear from an actress portraying Svetlana Savitskaya, the second woman in space and the first to perform a space walk, in 1984.

The festival celebrates women in science as part of International Women's Day, and there are activities for all the family. We think little ones will be entertained by The Rocket Show, which explains how rockets get into space, and what they do once they're up there.

Friday's talk, A Big Ball Of Fire, sees solar physicist Helen Mason and space scientist Lucie Green giving a talk about the sun. This is followed by a chat about careers in the space industry — a sector in which the UK is a growing player. Then, on Saturday, Stefanie Kohl talks about A Day As A Space Engineer.

For a more interactive experience, the Space Station workshop offers a chance to create your own satellite or make and build a rocket.

Other topics covered throughout the weekend include black holes, how we explore Mars while remaining safely on planet Earth, and Europe's first mission to Mercury.

Beyond Earth takes place at the Science Museum 7-9 March. Entry to the museum and Beyond Earth activities is free, but arrive early to specific events as places are limited. See website for full event listings and times.

Last Updated 04 March 2014