Explore the impact space technology has on our everyday lives and how the future of space exploration is being shaped right here in the North East. Space Zone includes: 

•  A recreation of part of the International Space Station where students take the driving seat in Mission Control. Students work together to build a module of the International Space Station, land a space craft on the Moon and test prototypes to remove space debris. Plus our careers board highlights the variety of career opportunities available in the space industry.  
• The Sphere is a stunning large-scale spherical projection screen, ideal for sharing a space-eye view of the Earth, other planets and the moon, and highlighting issues such as environmental change.  
• The North’s biggest and most technically advanced planetarium. We offer a mix of traditional planetarium shows and creative animated films. From 2022, we are introducing DigiStar 7 –  the most advanced planetarium system in the world – so we can bring you even more amazing planetarium experiences. 
• An exhibit on Space and Society. See how you’re already using space technology in everyday life. Find out how SATNAV works, see how spotting penguin poo from space can help combat climate change and use satellite images to spot potential emergency situations and save lives.  
• An exhibit on the Solar System and Beyond. This area helps students understand the Solar System and its impact within the wider Universe, encouraging an appreciation for the fantastic vastness of space.  

Gaia by British artist Luke Jerram, is a mesmerizing seven-metre-diameter installation of planet Earth.  Created from detailed NASA imagery of the Earth’s surface, it provides a unique opportunity for students to view our planet, floating in three dimensions.  

The installation aims to create a sense of the Overview Effect, which was first described by author Frank White in 1987. Common features of the experience for astronauts are a feeling of awe for the planet, a profound understanding of the interconnection of all life, and a renewed sense of responsibility for taking care of the environment.  

Students can get hands-on in the Creativity Zone, with a range of interactive exhibits. Here they can solve challenges, make objects move on the spinning table and marvel at inspirational LEGO® creations from local LEGO® artist Steve Mayes.    

Our purpose-built studio space enables students to tap into their inner creativity and try a hands-on making activities designed to encourage creativity, problem-solving and collaboration. 

Play Zone is an interactive play environment for Key Stage 1 and Early Years pupils.

The kitchen, café and garden provide opportunities to learn about recycling and sustainability through child-led imaginative role play. Light play tables facilitate exploratory play, immersing pupils in delightful phenomena, while construction and soft play areas allow children to develop and test their physical and manipulation skills.

Exciting experiments and audience participation are hallmarks of our live shows. Shows change regularly throughout the year. 

Our open-air ice rink returns to Times Square, Saturday 13 November 21 - Sunday 09 January 22. 

Recreational ice skating can encourage students to explore a variety of winter sports, as well as improve posture and balance - and it’s fun and great exercise!