What Space Events Are the Must-Attend in the UK? A Celestial Calendar for March 2024

Embark on a cosmic journey with our guide to the most captivating space events in March 2024. From thought-provoking lectures in Devonport to enlightening talks at the Royal Observatory Edinburgh and exploring the mysteries of the universe’s origins. Whether stargazing at Lunt Meadows or taking an interstellar tour, each event promises an immersive experience. Join us for a month filled with astronomical wonders, educational talks, and family-friendly stargazing adventures!

Vast

When: 2 March

Where: Market Hall Duke Street Devonport, PL1 4PS United Kingdom

Set off on a journey further into space than any other human being has ever been. The journey that starts in our own solar system all the way out to the Big Bang. The total running time of the lecture is 34 minutes.

Astronomy for All: Talks at the Royal Observatory Edinburgh

When: 5 – 19 – 26 March

Where: Royal Observatory Edinburgh, Blackford Hill Edinburgh EH9 3HJ United Kingdom

Have you ever wondered what is out there in the night sky? Or how you could build a machine to explore behind the stars? Inviting scientists and engineers will share with you what they do and how it fits into the wider world of astronomy.

These talks are for people with a curiosity about the Universe, and don’t assume that you know much (or anything) about the topic before you arrive. They should be suitable for you if you’re between 12 and 200 years old and you want to find out more about the science and technology of space.

Astronomy at Stonehaugh – Origins of the Universe

When: 8 March

Where: Stonehaugh Activity Centre Stonehaugh Hexham NE483DZ United Kingdom

The Universe. How did it all begin? When did it all begin? Will it ever end? Humans have sought the answers to all of these questions, striving to fathom the mysteries of the stars and other bodies that lie within the universe and, ultimately, how the universe will end.

Journey through space and time, out into the cosmos, to find out some of the mysteries our universe has to offer. From our solar system to the large-scale structure of the universe and back to the Big Bang, you will explore our current perceptions of it all and the important discoveries made along the way.

AI in Space Innovation

When: 8 March

Where: River Room, King’s Building, Strand London WC2R 2LS United Kingdom

Embark on a journey into the cutting-edge realm of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its transformative role in Space Innovation. It aims to unravel the synergy between AI technologies and space exploration, providing attendees with a unique opportunity to explore the future of interstellar endeavours.

The event will include a keynote talk on AI in Space Robotics by Professor Yang Gao.

An Afternoon with Steve Plant from the UK Space Agency

When: 9 March

Where: Dorchester Library and Learning Centre, South Walks House, Charles Street Dorchester DT1 1EE United Kingdom

Enlightening talk with Steve Plant, delving into the fascinating realm of the UK Space Agency. During this engaging session, Steve will provide insights into the agency’s significant contributions to space exploration, detailing various missions in which the UK actively participates. Notably, he will highlight the milestone of the first UK launch that took place in January of the previous year.

This event offers a unique opportunity for attendees to gain a deeper understanding of the UK’s involvement in space initiatives. Moreover, participants are encouraged to actively participate in a Q&A session, where they can pose questions and further enrich their knowledge about the captivating world of space exploration.

Stargazing Evening at Lunt Meadows

When: 15 March

Where: Lunt Meadows Nature Reserve Lunt Road Lunt Village Near Maghull L29 8YA United Kingdom

It’s an evening of stargazing with an experienced astronomer. Using spotting scopes and binoculars, you will learn how to find stars and other celestial objects, including the moon in its waxing crescent phase with Jupiter nearby. This will be a perfect event for beginners with binoculars, but if you have a spotting scope or a telescope you already know how to set up, then please feel free to bring it along.

Interstellar tours

When: 16 March

Where: The Royal Institution 21, Albemarle Street London W1S 4BS United Kingdom

Embark on an enthralling cosmic journey with the esteemed science writer Brian Clegg as your guide through the uncharted depths of space. Step aboard the starship Endurance and prepare to be captivated by the breathtaking wonders that await in the farthest reaches of the cosmos.

While our vessel may exist only in the realm of fiction, the phenomena you will encounter are a vivid reflection of the awe-inspiring realities of the universe. From the colossal nebulae, which serve as celestial cradles for the birth of stars, to the spectacular detonations of supernovas that forge the essential building blocks of life, you will witness the dramatic chronicles of the cosmos. Traverse the planetary landscapes of distant solar systems, where alien worlds beckon, and venture closer to the heart of our own Milky Way to behold the mind-boggling expanse of the supermassive black hole that reigns at its centre.

Unlocking Space for Investment Pitch Day

When: 19 March

Where: PwC7 More London Place London SE1 2RT United Kingdom

Unlocking Space for Investment is a pilot initiative, backed by the UK Space Agency, that aims to catalyse private sector investment to support the growth of the UK space sector.​ The programme seeks to increase private investor awareness and understanding of investment opportunities across the space economy through the delivery of 2 pathways: the Investor Pathway and Business Pathway.

Each pathway offers tailored support to successful applicants, including learning content, masterclasses, networking and pitching opportunities. The programme overall seeks to create long-term, meaningful partnerships between the UK Space Agency, investors, and companies.

Wonders of the Universe with Professor Keith Mason

When: 22 March

Where: Fairholme Preparatory School, Mount Road Saint Asaph LL17 0DH United Kingdom

Embark on an extraordinary journey through the cosmos at the Wonders of the Universe event with the renowned scientist Professor Keith Mason! He is a true expert in the field who will unravel the mysteries of the universe and take you on a captivating tour of distant galaxies and planetary systems, exploring the age-old question, “Are we alone?”

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to expand your understanding of the universe and satisfy your curiosity about the wonders that lie beyond our planet. Whether you’re a seasoned astronomer or simply have a keen interest in space, this event promises to be an unforgettable experience.

Discourse: Space oddities with Harry Cliff (Theatre)

When: 27 March

Where: The Royal Institution of Great Britain, 21 Albemarle Street London W1S 4BS United Kingdom

Join the University of Cambridge and CERN physicist Harry Cliff as he explores the cosmic anomalies currently perplexing scientists. From particles of astonishing energies erupting from the depths beneath the Antarctic ice to enigmatic forces subtly tugging at the fundamental building blocks of matter, the universe offers us an ever-growing compendium of cosmic riddles. Notably, stars are hurtling away from us at velocities that challenge the boundaries of explanation, leaving scientists astounded by the inexplicable.

Harry will guide us on a journey that spans continents, introducing us to the brilliant minds who have dedicated their careers and reputations to unravelling the mysteries shrouding these cosmic anomalies. Are these cosmic quirks flukes of nature, or do they elude to the hidden parts of the universe we have yet to discover?

Family Friendly Stargazing

When: 30 March

Where: Danby Lodge National Park CentreLodge Lane Whitby YO21 2NB United Kingdom

Family Stargazing Event – Easter themed! A fun, interactive event for the whole family to enjoy as an introduction to stargazing and astronomy. 

Learn how to navigate the stars and discover what we can see in the night sky with an interactive presentation and some virtual stargazing. See if you can find the Easter Bunny on the MOON! Enjoy some cosmic craft activities and a space-themed easter hunt!

As you can see, this month is full of amazing space events that invite us to continue our exploration of the cosmos. So, what are you waiting for? Book your spot now! And until the next cosmic rendezvous, keep looking up and reaching for the stars!