New stellar space gallery opening at the Science Museum this autumn
Conservation Manager Kay Sauders examining the Sokol Spacesuit worn by Helen Sharman.
LONDON.—
Today, as the Exploring Space gallery closes after welcoming tens of millions of visitors over four decades, the Science Museum announced that its new Space gallery will open to the public on Saturday 20 September 2025. This significant gallery will bring together objects that celebrate the first space age and the future of space exploration, including cutting-edge prototype technology created in the UK and never before displayed.
There will be plenty of opportunities to discover more about our galaxy, space exploration and how astronauts go to the toilet with free activities taking place throughout summer at the Science Museum. The Space Show, a stellar new free family show in the Lecture Theatre, will invite visitors to see and take part in science demonstrations and live experiments.
Sir Ian Blatchford, Director and Chief Executive of the Science Museum Group, said: ‘As a species, we've always looked to the stars. I have no doubt that the wonders of space we showcase in our new gallery will inspire and thrill a new generation of visitors. Whether you're fascinated by the engineering behind space exploration, inspired by stories of space pioneers, or simply curious about the planets, Space invites you to delve into humanity's greatest adventure.’
Libby Jackson, Head of Space at the Science Museum, said: ‘I remember visiting Exploring Space decades ago, and then, when I was a student at Imperial College, I'd spend my lunch there soaking up the stories. It opened my eyes to the possibilities of careers in space, and the sector I would one day work in. With so many opportunities for visitors to discover the wonders of space this summer, I’m thrilled we can continue to inspire young people to imagine what might be out there for them.’
• Space, a new free gallery revealing fascinating stories behind space exploration, will open at the Science Museum from Saturday 20 September 2025;
• In the lead up to the gallery opening, adults and families can enjoy an exciting programme of free space activities this summer, including a new free show featuring live experiments and interactive demonstrations.
• The gallery will showcase new technologies from the UK space sector, on display for the very first time, including prototype electric propulsion technology from Magdrive, as well as international innovations, such as the ‘rolly-polly’ Moon rover– the result of the first collaboration between a space agency and a toy company;
• Space will feature iconic objects including a piece of the Moon, the capsule that carried astronaut Tim Peake and the space suit worn by astronaut Helen Sharman;
• This announcement follows the closure of the Exploring Space gallery today, after 39 years of welcoming visitors.
