Destination Space at British Science Week 2024
The long running ASDC national programme Destination Space, funded by UK Space Agency, made an appearance at British Science Week this year, showcasing the resources that are still having an impact across the UK.
ASDC awarded five science centres with small grants to provide support for delivery of Destination Space themed activities during Mars Week and British Science Week during March 2024. The five centres were:
- Dundee Science Centre
- Glasgow Science Centre
- Jodrell Bank
- STEM Discovery Centre
- W5
Over 150 Dundee Brownies, Rainbows and Guides gained an insight into the countless careers in STEM during a special event at Dundee Science Centre, held on International Women’s Day, 8th March. The event featured all female scientists giving inspirational talks and sharing activities.
STEM Discovery organised visits to the Airbus Mars Yard with activities including programming a mini Mars Rover to take part in a space race. There were special Science Lates event for 18+ that included a planetarium show at Glasgow Science Centre featuring stunning photos from JWST, Astronaut dress up and Ted's Space Adventure show at Jodrell Bank for under 5 year olds, and W5's Destination Space show Putting the Planet in Perspective encouraging deeper understanding of satellites and applications for life on Earth.
The grants meant that the centres were able to engage with an additional 1500 individuals over Mars week and British Science Week.
"This marked our first opportunity to offer a free public event, made possible by the funding we received" - STEM Discovery Centre
"It’s so important that women, girls, and all underrepresented groups see people like themselves working in areas where we still have gender inequality. Our planet has some big challenges ahead, and we need all voices represented at decision-making tables and in the workforce. We make better decisions when we have better representation" - Dr Rebecca Wade, Dundee Science Centre event