New exhibition on our nearest neighbour
The chance to touch a real moon rock, marvel at a giant inflatable solar system, and explore Suffolk’s space stories awaits adventurers to Suffolk Archives’ free, family friendly summer exhibition.
The Moon: Meet Our Nearest Neighbour, a touring exhibition from Bespoke Scientific, touches down at The Hold Ipswich from 26th June to 19th September.
Discover the science and mythology of the moon. Re-live historic moments in lunar discovery, including how the space race unfolded and the lead up to the 1969 moon landing. Explore how the moon influences our natural environment from tides and seas to nighttime animals.
Learn about Alice Grace Cook, a pioneering female astronomer from Stowmarket. Search for the truth behind the mystery of the Rendlesham UFO. Look to the sky with local astronomical groups to understand how you can safely observe its wonders closer to home.
There is loads happening alongside the exhibition.
Blast off with the pop-up Wonder Dome Planetarium for two days in August. Fully immersive shows that will transport you on a thrilling trip through the cosmos and its many wonders - from the birth of planets and the death of stars to launching rockets and stepping foot on other worlds.
Book on to Suffolk Archives’ space-themed craft sessions for ages 4-11, including relaxed options for little stars who want a quieter space; and look out for free craft pop-ups in Suffolk Libraries. The Hold Ipswich also has star-studded films for youngsters of all ages with WALL-E and E.T. plus a fun trail.
Enjoy a step-free Stars of Science walk highlighting Ipswich’s immense contributions to science and exploration.
There are also talks about Suffolk archaeologist Basil Brown’s work in astronomy and an evening with Space East and guests about the exciting technological developments happening here in Suffolk.
Staying on Earth, Suffolk Archives’ tour trailer is back on the road, this time to celebrate the 250th anniversary of Suffolk painter John Constable’s birth. They’re also honouring Lilian Redstone, who was one of the first women to make history her profession and helped shape how the county’s stories are kept and shared today. The Archives are also celebrating the success of their Beyond Labels project with food, music, crafts, a pop-up exhibition and more.
There’s plenty planned for this year’s Heritage Open Days with behind-the-scenes tours, diaries showcase, and paper marbling.
Also, this summer there are talks about the Guncotton Explosion and the Abbey of St Edmund Reborn project, walks focusing on John Constable and Margaret Catchpole, and workshops including one that’s focused on the archives’ Women’s Institute collections.
To find out more about The Moon: Meet Our Nearest Neighbour exhibition, and the rest of Suffolk Archives’ summer programme visit www.suffolkarchives.co.uk.