We The Curious’ ever popular Planetarium Nights have returned. The big silver ball in Millennium Square which, over the years, has played host to movie nights, talks and special 2D and 3D shows, has reopened just months after the science centre’s grand reopening event.
We The Curious was forced to close its doors following a fire in April 2022 which devastated the popular tourist attraction. The roof-top fire left the building severely water damaged and staff spent time delivering science and education events in communities across the city, while awaiting the return to business as usual.
Back in July, the science centre’s main building and event programme reopened in a grand reopening ceremony, showcasing the newly restored interiors and spruced up exhibits of old. But, at the time, the team said that some of its ‘special events’ would be “on hold” for the time being, making a return in autumn 2024.
In a statement they said: “As we find our feet with reopening, a few of our usual special events will be on hold just for now – but will be back in the autumn! This includes Toddler Takeovers, Planetarium Nights and Relaxed Morning events. We’ll let you know as soon as tickets are on sale for these events.”
They also shared their schedule of Planetarium shows – three space themed titles, with a mixture of 2D and 3D viewing to enjoy. The first, Colossal Cosmos (3D) kicked off the new Planetarium programme on September 26 – it marked the official return of the iconic event, and its rather iconic venue.
Here are the current and upcoming Planetarium shows (both daytime and evening showings) to look forward to:
Colossal Cosmos (3D)
When: Regular daily shows, 3D: £4 per seat (members £2), in addition to standard admission. 3D shows only available for ages 6+. Advance booking strongly recommended.
Planetarium Nights showings on the following dates only – October 10 (7pm or 8.30pm), October 24 (7pm or 8.30pm) – these are aged 16+.
Target audience: Age 9+. Suitable for families and adults. Not suitable for under 6s.
Synopsis: “Fly through the rings of Saturn, explore constellations, and spot a “shooting star” as we investigate the incredibly large and the impossibly distant and ask – are we really as small as we seem in comparison? This awe-inspiring show combines knowledgeable presenters with the only 3D Planetarium in the UK to create a truly astounding experience. Investigate the science of astronomy and find answers to questions you’ve always wanted to ask.”
Expedition: Solar System (2D & 3D)
When: Regular daily shows. £4 per seat (members £2), in addition to standard admission. 3D shows only available for ages 6+. Advance booking strongly recommended
Target audience: Recommended for ages 7+, families and adults. No admittance for under 6s in 3D shows. 2D shows are not suitable for under 3s.
Synopsis: “Board the UK’s only 3D Planetarium for an expedition across the Solar System. Discover the answers to questions posed by our visitors and choose where we visit along the way. Why are moons not planets? What is the strangest world in the Solar System? Each question will take us on a different path through the Solar System, with multiple destinations to choose from.”
Spin the Spaceship (2D)
When: Ongoing. Regular daily shows, £4 per seat (members £2), in addition to standard admission. Under 3s FREE.
Target audience: Suitable for under-6s, and their grown-ups.
Synopsis: “Zoom through space and explore the Solar System as we help Blurgle Wurgle the friendly alien find a new home. Where shall we go? Let’s spin the spaceship and find out! Join us for our brand-new under 6s Planetarium show, where dancing helps the spaceship spin!”
When: November 5-December 27
Target audience: Recommended for age 9+ (not suitable for under 6s)
Synopsis: “With shorter days and clear nights, winter can be the best time of year to look up at the night sky. Wander into the giant silver ball for your very own guided tour.
“Discover famous constellations, unveil the secret lives of stars, and discover the fate of our Sun! Combining our incredible 3D Planetarium with our lively and knowledgeable presenters creates a remarkable show and a truly astounding experience.
“Whether you are an amateur astronomer or completely new to stargazing, you’ll be able to escape the everyday and leave inspired to discover the night sky for yourself. Shows last 30 mins.”