Space Events Calendar for July 2024: the UK & Beyond

As the summer of 2024 kicks into high gear, space enthusiasts across the UK and beyond are in for a treat with a lineup of events that promise to ignite the imagination and fuel the passion of novices and experts alike.

From the hallowed halls of academia to cutting-edge tech hubs, this month’s calendar is packed with opportunities to engage with the final frontier. We’re not just talking about stargazing sessions – although there are plenty of those too. We’re not just talking about stargazing sessions – although there are plenty of those too. Think hands-on workshops where you can build miniature satellites, lectures from astronauts who’ve walked in the void, and conferences where the next giant leap for mankind might just be conceptualized. So, grab your diary and get ready to pencil in some dates. 

Women in Science: Space Tour

When? 2 & 20 July

Where? Natural History Museum, Cromwell Road London SW7 5BD United Kingdom

Take a guided tour of the first-floor Hintze Hall balconies and Minerals Gallery and hear the gripping stories of the female scientists whose contributions changed our understanding of space. Encounter numerous treasures, including rare meteorites, as you learn about the research of female space scientists past and present, including some who’ve worked at the Museum.

Galileo’s Gaze: the Secrets of Cosmic Discovery

When? 6 July

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

David Jamieson delves into the revolutionary discoveries made by Galileo in the early 17th century.

Galileo unearthed Jupiter’s moons, Venus’s phases, and lunar landscapes using his groundbreaking telescope. However, hidden within his logbooks lie tantalising clues: the sighting of a mysterious “fixed star,” now recognised as the planet Neptune, observed long before its official discovery.

This talk explores the possibility that Galileo may have recognised Neptune’s planetary nature, potentially marking humanity’s first discovery in millennia. Join us as we unravel the enigma of Galileo’s observations and their profound implications for our understanding of the cosmos.

National Astronomy Meeting 2024

When? 14-19 July

Where? University of Hull

The Royal Astronomical Society and the E.A. Milne Centre for Astrophysics at the University of Hull will be hosting the UK National Astronomy Meeting, where we will bring together hundreds of delegates from the UK astronomy community. NAM2024 will feature a wide-ranging scientific programme in parallel with exciting outreach and cultural events.

The Science of Black Holes with Prof. Amelie Saintonge

When? 16 July

Where? Juju’s Bar and Stage, 15 Hanbury Street London E1 6QR United Kingdom

Black holes are one of the strangest and most fascinating things in the universe. They are massively heavy, with gravity so strong that even light can’t escape them. When they collide, they release such huge amounts of energy that they send ripples through spacetime itself. But what actually are black holes, how do they even come into being, and what can they teach us about physics and the nature of the universe?

In this out-of-this-world talk from astrophysicist Dr Amelie Saintonge, you will hear all about the mind bending theories behind black holes, and the latest scientific discoveries. You will be amazed not just by the incredible universe we live in, but also by the impressively creative feats of engineering we humans have devised to unlock the secrets of these cosmic beasts!

Astrophysics for Supervillains: Dastardly space questions

When? 17 July

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

Could you crash the moon in to the Earth? If the sun explodes, will we get vaporised? What is the weather like on Mercury? Join Matt Bothwell to explore the solar system, galaxies, the universe, and, most importantly, the answer to the question “which planet is entirely populated by robots?” Discover the answers to all of these questions and many more at the supervillain academy: the magnificently morbid school for young supervillains-in-training.

This event is particularly suitable for ages 10+. As with all our family theatre talks, this event is designed to be enjoyed by adults and children together.

Planetarium Shows – The Search for Life (Adults and Young People)

When? 18 July

Where? Tesco,88-91 Blackpool Road Ribbleton PR1 6US United Kingdom

Step into the wonders of the universe with the Mobile Planetarium. Dive into the depths of space and explore the mysteries of the night sky. The event will take place at Tesco’s Car Park, Ribbleton and will accessible for young space enthusiasts and adults.

A Journey into Space – Early Years Show

When? 31 July

Where? Southend Central Museum & Planetarium, Victoria Avenue Southend-on-Sea SS2 6EW United Kingdom

Blast off in our Planetarium rocketship on this ‘Journey into Space’, a show specially curated for younger children. A perfect way for all aspiring astronauts and astronomers to begin their exploration of space. This show is suitable for ages 3+. 

WORLDWIDE

Summit for Space Sustainability

When? 11-12 July

Where? Tokyo, Japan, The National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation (Miraikan)

The 6th Summit for Space Sustainability is a high-level, multi-day policy forum designed to highlight opportunities and challenges for developing solutions for space sustainability. Join hundreds of global experts and stakeholders from industry, governments, and civil society to participate in keynotes, interactive sessions, panels, and networking. 

With a special focus on the Asia-Pacific region, key themes include:

• Active debris removal progress and challenges
• Space situational awareness initiatives
• Commercial space industry’s role in space sustainability
• The interaction of civil, security, and commercial space
• Space sustainability in the exploration context

International Space Station Research & Development Conference

When? 29 July – 1 August

Where? Boston, Massachusetts, USA

At ISSRDC, learn how to harness the International Space Station (ISS) and the unique conditions of space to help solve your most pressing research and technology development (R&D) challenges. Meet the trailblazers who are advancing their R&D goals, fundamental science objectives, and STEM education efforts. Attend technical sessions, panel discussions, and lightning talks – all highlighting space station research.

ASCEND

When? 30 July – 1 August

Where? Las Vegas, USA

ASCEND connects the civil, commercial, and national security space sectors, along with adjacent industries, to embrace the opportunities and address the challenges that come with increased activity in space. Building our sustainable off-world future requires long-term thinking. Strategic planning, innovation, scientific exploration, and effective regulations and standards will help us preserve space for future generations. 

ASCEND will dedicate three days to sharing broad, bold ideas and perspectives as the nexus for addressing the most important space topics today.