“December has been a great time for reflections, as it followed a remarkable milestone on 25th November. We have now hit one full year since the doors of our Planetarium and Science Centre first opened to the public.
In just twelve months, our transformed Victorian reservoir (which was repurposed into a world-class facility) has realised an ambitious vision to become a vibrant hub of STEM learning, creativity, and entertainment. It truly has become a place where curiosity thrives and inspiration takes root for young people, seasoned enthusiasts, and those wanting to step into space from the local (Ashfield) and wider (East Midlands) area.
From the very beginning, the dedication of volunteers from both our members Society and from ATTFE College has been at the heart of everything we do. Their tireless work of welcoming visitors, supporting events and group visits, and sharing their in-depth skills and knowledge has not only shaped the day-to-day experience of visitors, but the very character of the centre itself.
This past year, our centre has been recognised through several prestigious awards celebrating both the excellence of our members, our building and the extraordinary levels of service of those who have helped to bring it to life. These honours reflect the collective effort of individuals who give their time, passion, and expertise to make this facility something truly special.
As I am often here on a daily basis, I have had the pleasure of witnessing unforgettable moments: some of which I never imagined I’d see.
The notes of live piano music drifting across the planetarium and reverberating against the Victorian brickwork of our reservoir, performed by local composer Chris Miggells and backlit by 300 glowing mock candles. Visitors gathering for thought provoking creative writing workshops inspired by the Apollo missions, singing circles sessions in our reservoir exhibition, and our highly sought after programme of home-education sessions that offer valuable, curiosity-driven learning for youngsters across the area.
We’ve welcomed school groups from across the region and hosted visits from uniformed organisations including Cubs, Scouts, Brownies, and others – young explorers, who are eager to discover the wonders of science, technology, engineering, and maths.
Our Night School program has expanded to include the state-of-the-art planetarium which allows an even more enhanced version of this long-established offering.
We’ve played host to adult groups including the WI, U3A, Rotary Clubs and many others who have thoroughly enjoyed our planetarium shows and like to return with friends and family afterward.
We have also become a popular venue for corporate away-days and meetings, providing a unique space and experience for local businesses.
Our events calendar has been packed our with careers fairs, fundraisers, and lectures from well-known names from the astronomy community, as well as visits from other astronomy societies who have been more than impressed with our world class facilities!
The Planetarium itself has been showing an array of 20+ full dome shows and night sky talks, covering inspiring topics and shows for all ages and abilities. There’s a choice of animation, docu style, music. And we intend to continue to bring fresh additions – four more have been added for the Autumn/Winter season – covering amongst other things setting up a permanent base on the Moon, and the first human mission to Mars!
Our visitor numbers are simply astounding. Since opening, we have welcomed over 36,000 people through our doors – a fantastic achievement! Our volunteering figures are just as amazing. A dedicated army of over 80 members, including Cafe volunteers from our local ATTFE College, who have collectively given more than 5,300 hours of their own time to make our ‘second home’ such a success.
To all our staff and volunteers: this year is a testament to your commitment. You have gone above and beyond to help shape the centre into a welcoming, engaging, and professionally run visitor attraction. Every achievement we celebrate today is built upon your hard work, and I want to give my personal thanks and gratitude for all you’ve done!
That said, this journey has also been a profound learning curve. We, as a team have listened closely to suggestions and constructive feedback from visitors, volunteers, and MSAS members and employees. Each piece of advice – big or small – has guided us to refine our exhibitions, improve visitor flow, enhance accessibility, and strengthen the educational value of our programmes. We take pride in being a centre that not only teaches but learns.
Looking ahead into 2026, the future shines brightly!
With continued support and the unwavering dedication of our volunteers and employee team, Sherwood Observatory Planetarium and Science Centre will continue to grow from strength to strength.
We plan to continue our investment in the centre and its offerings and now we have one year under our belt, look out for new additions and transformations which are on the way.
To everyone who has joined us on this journey – thank you. Here’s to another year of discovery, inspiration, and wonder!”.
Tony Booth – Centre Manager
Published by Susanna Holt