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Sherwood Observatory Unveils Inspiring New Exhibition for 2026
Sherwood Observatory’s new exhibition has launched in time for Spring–Summer. Now open, it takes visitors on an engaging journey through historic and modern spaceflight, the solar system, British rocketry, and the innovative use of space technology in animal conservation.
Curated by the Observatory’s dedicated team and volunteers, the exhibition features interactive and educational displays designed to inspire visitors of all ages. Highlights include explorations of modern optical and radio astronomy, the future of space travel, and fascinating insights into humanity’s efforts to understand and explore the cosmos.
A standout element is an in-depth presentation on the Space Shuttle programme, showcasing extraordinary artefacts such as flown thermal protection tiles from the Orbiters Challenger and Atlantis, hand-built models, vintage posters, and rare memorabilia.
These items have been generously loaned from the private collection of Rudolf Williams, supported by NASA. Williams also contributes an accompanying art exhibition Illustrating how scientists track endangered species from space using satellite tags and collars.
The exhibition strengthens the charity’s mission to make STEM accessible to the local community and to inspire future generations of scientists and space enthusiasts. In addition to the new displays, the Observatory will continue to offer its popular programme of planetarium shows, Open Days, courses, and special events throughout the season.
“Our goal is to ignite curiosity and provide opportunities for everyone to explore the wonders of space,” said Tony Booth, Centre Manager. “This exhibition represents an exciting step forward in our commitment to public engagement and STEM education.”
Entry is included in standard entry to a Planetarium show and should be purchased sherwood-observatory.org.uk.