New Space Gallery Launches at Science Museum, Showcases Iconic Artifacts

The new Space gallery at the Science Museum in London opens this week, offering visitors an immersive journey through space history and the modern British space industry. The exhibition features a range of iconic artifacts, including two returned space capsules, a space suit worn by Helen Sharman, the first British astronaut, and a lunar rock known as Genesis Rock from the Apollo 15 mission.

Located in the far West Gallery, adjacent to the IMAX theatre, the new setting enhances visitor experience compared to the previous mid-hall location. The gallery not only showcases historical objects but also highlights advancements in the UK space sector. Among the exhibits is the Prospero satellite, launched in 1971 by a Black Arrow rocket, which stands as a testament to the UK’s early contributions to space exploration.

Modern Innovations and Female Representation

The exhibition also features contemporary innovations, such as propulsion prototypes from Harwell’s Magdrive, docking plates from Astroscale, and a concept model for Moon-based nuclear power generation from Rolls Royce. The presence of modern projects underscores the UK’s ongoing commitment to space exploration and technology.

Moreover, the gallery places a strong emphasis on female contributions to the field of space science. Alongside Helen Sharman, the exhibition honors Katherine Johnson, the NASA mathematician whose calculations were critical to the success of early space missions. Margaret Hamilton, who was instrumental in programming the Apollo spacecraft, is also featured.

In a contemporary narrative, Zoe Clark from Spire Global represents the next generation of talent, transitioning from a 16-year-old apprentice to the company’s mission manager overseeing satellite launches.

Additionally, Professors Emma Bunce and Suzie Imber from the University of Leicester are highlighted in video presentations that showcase the cutting-edge work behind the BepiColombo project, which is currently exploring Mercury.

The new gallery at the Science Museum promises to be a compelling destination for anyone interested in the history and future of space exploration. As it opens to the public, visitors can expect an enriching experience that not only celebrates past achievements but also inspires future innovations.