Three, two, one...we have blast off! But how?

Have you ever wondered about what goes on as a rocketship blasts off from its launchpad? How are the astronauts inside equipped to leave our planet? And what science is happening inside the shuttle that sends it shooting through the sky? Let’s find out together in Blast Off, an explosive new free live science show.

Join the Science Centre space commanders as they delve into the secrets of space travel. More than 60 years ago, the first human travelled into space. Since then, over 600 people have left our planet to explore the skies above us. And, right now, there are people living and working aboard the International Space Station, which is never left unmanned.

This winter become an astronaut-in-training and delve into the secrets of space travel. Find out about the forces we need to overcome to launch a rocketship. And get ready for some explosive combustion experiments that explore how shuttles launch into the stars. Are you ready to start your mission to space?

Accessibility information for Blast Off

The Science Theatre is accessible so everyone can enjoy all the fun. Sometimes there will be loud noises, but we'll tell you about them before the show starts. If you want to wear ear defenders, you can borrow them from us before the show starts. If you feel nervous in a show, you can stay near the back and leave quickly if you need to.

Sensitive to loud noises? There's a not-so-noisy show just for you at 3.30pm.

***On Monday, 23rd December and Saturday, 11th January 2025, a British Sign Language interpreter will be signing during the 11:30am and 2:30pm shows. Talk to our Accessibility team so we can reserve a seat for you near the front.***