Rocket arrives in Newcastle as part of a tour from the UK Space Agency

A huge 72ft rocket has appeared outside a science museum in Newcastle as part of a tour from the UK Space Agency geared towards inspiring the next generation.

The replica went on show to visitors today (THURS) at the Life Centre in the city's Times Square and will run until Monday (AUG 14) during the Space for Everyone' STEAM tour.

This exciting initiative aims to captivate and educate youngsters by showcasing the UK's flourishing space industry and the diverse array of career opportunities available.

Visitors will be able to continue their experience within the centre, where they can enjoy discounted admission to explore the centre’s dedicated Space Zone, which includes a replica of the International Space Station, a hands-on Mission Control and the North’s biggest and most advanced planetarium.

Extra rocket inspired activities will also be available including the chance to create 'stomp' rockets which are propelled by the power of feet.

The tour will serve as a beacon of inspiration, shedding light on the pivotal role that space plays in enhancing life on Earth.

Visitors will also have the opportunity to witness first-hand how space technologies benefit our daily lives and gain insights into the continuous efforts to explore the great unknown.

Linda Conlon, Chief Executive at Life Science Centre, said:

"It's great that the UK Space Agency’s rocket is coming to Times Square.

"We know that our visitors love everything about space and we’re anticipating that a lot of people will be coming to see the rocket and learn more about the range of opportunities in the UK space industry.

"Families will be able to continue their space journey inside the Life Science Centre, and experience what we believe is the biggest and most exciting range of space exhibits in the North of England.

"To celebrate all of this, we are reducing ticket prices by 20% while the rocket is here. We know that families continue to be hard-pressed, but we don't want anyone to miss out on what promises to be a really special few days."

Matt Archer, Director of Launch at the UK Space Agency, added:

"We're delighted to bring Our Space for Everyone tour to Newcastle so young people and their families can learn not just about space, but also about the vibrant North East space sector and the exciting career opportunities available.

"The space sector is diverse and requires people from all backgrounds and with a variety of skills – many not traditionally associated with it.

"The tour proves you don't have to be a rocket scientist, or even an astronaut, as there are a host of talents needed to bring space closer to our daily lives and improve our understanding of this critical part of the environment for the benefit of the planet and its people."

Space for Everyone promises an immersive experience, incorporating state-of-the-art virtual reality headsets to provide unparalleled insights into what a launch from the UK looks like, and the job roles involved in making it happen.

Visitors will also be able to explore various interactive areas and learn about the crucial role of satellites and discovering the diverse career paths available within the UK space industry.

British astronaut Tim Peake said:

"The Space for Everyone tour will demonstrate the incredible capacity of space to inspire.

"It took thousands of people to make my mission to the International Space Station possible and there is a huge variety of careers on offer in space right here in the UK.

"I hope this activity sparks an interest in the future generations who will take our space sector to new heights."

Throughout the event, organisations including the World Wild Fund for Nature with British Antarctic Survey (BAS), North East Space Cluster, University of Sunderland and AmbaSat, will be in attendance – highlighting the thriving space industry in Newcastle and beyond. 

Admission to the tour is free and no booking required.

While the event is primarily targeted towards children aged 9 to 18, it is guaranteed to ignite a passion for science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEAM) in individuals of all ages.

Everyone is invited to participate and experience the excitement of the Space for Everyone tour. Life Science Centre admission prices apply.

For further information about the Space for Everyone tour, please visit https://spaceperson.co.uk/rocket-tour/ or follow @spacegovuk on social media.

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