Sherwood Observatory is delighted to announce a brand-new exhibition which has arrived at the Planetarium & Science Centre in time for the Spring–Summer 2026 season.

The exhibition is now open to the public and promises to deliver an inspiring exploration of past & present spaceflight, our solar system, notable events in history, British rocketry and animal conservation.

The team and volunteers at Sherwood Observatory have designed and installed a range of exhibits that will captivate visitors (beginners and enthusiasts of all ages) from across Ashfield, the county of Nottinghamshire, and wider region with an interest in stepping into or broadening their knowledge of astronomy, space and STEM.

This exhibition will showcase cutting-edge optical and radio astronomy, the future of space travel, interesting facts about space and our attempts to understand and explore the cosmos.

There is an in-depth exploration of the Space Shuttle program featuring extraordinary objects – flown thermal protection tiles from the Shuttle Orbiters ‘Challenger’ and ‘Atlantis’, hand-built models, vintage posters, and an array of fascinating memorabilia. These wonderful items have kindly been loaned from the private collection of Rudolf Williams (acquired with the support of NASA).

Also, we have an art exhibition created by Rudolf, which showcases the work of scientists tracking endangered species from space using satellite tags and collars. The new exhibition extends the Sherwood Observatory’s ongoing mission – to make STEM more accessible to the local community – into the arts. Through STEAM, it inspires the next generation of astronomy enthusiasts and STEM professionals.

Alongside the exhibition, the observatory will continue to host Its hugely popular programme of planetarium shows, Open Days, courses, and special guest events and activities throughout the season.

“Our goal is to ignite curiosity and provide a mixture of opportunities for everyone to explore the wonders of space,” says Tony Booth, Centre Manager at Sherwood Observatory Planetarium & Science Centre. “This exhibition represents an exciting step forward in our commitment to public engagement and STEM education. And will enhance the experience even further for returning and new visitors”

Take a look at What’s on.

Note: Entry to the exhibition is included alongside standard entry to a Planetarium show, and is also included with some other events held at the centre.

Published by Susanna Holt