Sherwood Observatory Planetarium and Science Centre, Sutton in Ashfield, launched in November 2025, and little did the team of volunteers expect such a busy and successful first year.
In particular, the centre’s state-of-the-art Planetarium has proven a huge draw to visitors of all ages, welcoming individuals and groups that are either completely new to the world of space, astronomy and science or knowledgeable experts and enthusiasts who are already well versed in the topic.
The venue’s striking dome features a state-of-the-art overhead wraparound hemispherical screen, which delivers fully immersive experiences that bring the wonders of the Universe vividly to life. Measuring 10 metres (32.8 feet) in diameter, the projection surface offers seamless 4K resolution throughout, while carefully angled seating ensures a comfortable and captivating view from every position. And it also allows for wheelchair users (with designated space for this).
The crisp high-definition sound during the shows makes for an even more impressive experience.
The centre offers a diverse programme of more than 20+ shows, including professionally produced full-dome animated adventures, documentary style informative shows, music led shows, BSL and even shows for toddlers the majority of which feature presenter-led tours of the night sky. Alongside the scheduled public programme, the planetarium also welcomes private group bookings, allowing guests to select from a growing catalogue of shows tailored to their interests.
Following the huge success of the initial programme four more shows have been added for 2026 which include:
(Aimed at Viewers 5 – 10 years old.)
Sedna, a joyful otter dreams of distant lands. Inspired by a cormorant’s travels she begins an extraordinary journey to explore the water cycle on Earth & beyond
Sedna is fully adapted to her environment and has everything she needs to live the contented life of a happy little sea otter. But Sedna dreams of travelling to distant places…
Join Sedna and Toklo the Cormorant on an extraordinary journey to discover the water cycle on Earth and beyond.
Please note that under 16’s must be accompanied by an adult.
(Suitable for: Ages 4 and over. Aimed at Teens/Adults. Not suitable for children aged 3 and under.)
When asked to talk about the universe, astronomers will describe it to you in a thousand different ways. Starting with the diverse planets of the Solar System, charming comets, hot stars and ethereal nebulae, they’ll take you on a journey all the way to galaxies billions of light-years away. Into this mix, they will throw in a bit of mysterious dark matter, a few black holes, a dash of dark energy and finish it off with a pinch of strange elementary particles.
However, for an ordinary Earthling, such a list of fancy terms feels just like flipping through a cookbook, without being able to taste the individual ingredients, let alone the finished product. That’s why we decided to serve you the universe in a completely different way: You will experience it with all your senses!
Please note that under 16’s must be accompanied by an adult.
(Suitable for: All Ages – Aimed at Viewers 4+)
One small step was just the beginning. Now, we take one step beyond – driven by curiosity, bound for Mars, and ready to write the boldest chapter in human exploration.
Experience the thrill of launch, the challenges of life in space, the cutting-edge technology of NASA’s Artemis program, and the search for life that could transform how we see our planet, our past, and our place in the cosmos – as we prepare for humanity’s biggest step yet: setting foot on Mars.
Narrated by Richard Armitage
Please note that under 16’s must be accompanied by an adult.
(Suitable for: Ages 4 and over. Aimed at Teens/Adults. Not suitable for children aged 3 and under.)
For the last 20 years, humans have continuously lived and worked aboard the International Space Station 250 miles above Earth, preparing for the day we move farther into the Solar System.
In the next 10 years that dream will become a reality. Humans will return to the Moon and develop a sustained, strategic presence near the lunar South Pole. The moon will become our first ‘staging post’ from which Mars and the rest of the Solar System becomes tantalisingly closer.
Narrated by former NASA Astronaut Nicole Stott, MOONBASE: THE NEXT STEP is the story of this human endeavour, pushing scientific and technological advances to the limit.
Travelling the 250,000 miles and surviving the hostile and alien conditions of reduced gravity, extreme temperatures and toxic lunar dust, we explain the science and technology for this brave mission to happen.
Please note that under 16’s must be accompanied by an adult. Tickets should be purchased in advance online before a visit. To book online visit our tickets page
Written by Susanna Holt.