top of page
Search

National Space Centre Launches Immersive New Outer Solar System Experience as 25th Birthday Gift to Visitors

The National Space Centre is marking its 25th birthday on 30 June with the launch of an extraordinary new gallery experience — a major addition designed to transform the visitor journey and bring the far reaches of our Solar System closer than ever before.



At the heart of the celebrations is the brand-new Outer Solar System Experience, an immersive space where visitors can step beyond the asteroid belt and explore distant worlds without ever leaving the Centre. This exciting new environment allows guests to interact with some of the most fascinating phenomena in our cosmic neighbourhood — from encountering a comet to creating their own extremophile lifeform — opening up the mysteries of the outer planets in a dynamic and unforgettable way.


The launch also marks the reopening of the updated Our Solar System Gallery, making 30 June the very first opportunity for visitors to experience both the new installation and the refreshed wider gallery.


This landmark launch forms the centrepiece of the National Space Centre’s 25th birthday celebrations — a special gift to visitors that reflects its ongoing commitment to innovation, learning, and inspiring future generations.


The National Space Centre would like to extend its sincere thanks to the Wolfson Foundation, the Garfield Weston Foundation, and the Royal Commission for the Exhibition of 1851 for their generous support. Their investment has been instrumental not only in bringing the new Outer Solar System Experience to life, but also in enabling the wider transformation of the Our Solar System Gallery.


Together, this funding has supported comprehensive development, ensuring the gallery continues to evolve and inspire — helping visitors explore some of the most important questions about our place in the Solar System and our understanding of the universe.


To ensure as many people as possible can be part of this milestone moment, the National Space Centre will host a Pay What You Can Day on 30 June. Designed to support families and individuals facing financial challenges, the initiative allows visitors to enjoy a full day out at a price they can afford, helping to make space accessible to all.


The day itself will be a true celebration, with activities for the whole family taking place across the Centre. Visitors can explore award-winning galleries, enjoy a full dome planetarium show, climb the iconic Rocket Tower, and immerse themselves in the brand-new experience.


And no birthday celebration would be complete without cake. A special commemorative creation will be made in partnership with the University of Leicester and Great British Bake Off’s Josh Smalley, adding a delicious highlight to the day’s festivities.


To give families even more time to celebrate, the National Space Centre will extend its opening hours until 7.00pm.


Pay What You Can admission will be available on the door only on 30 June, with advance tickets purchased through the National Space Centre website remaining at standard admission prices.





bottom of page