Science Communicator explains how a spacesuit works to two visitors
National Space Centre

Sensory Sessions

  1. Science Communicator showing a meteorite to a child and mother
    National Space Centre

    Our Sensory Sessions are available to individuals, families and groups with access needs (must be booked in advance).

    The sessions support people to engage with our collection in an accessible way, through touch, sound, and smell.

    A trained member of our Space Communications team to lead the process, ensuring the session runs at the speed and pace of the individual needs.

Education facilitator leading an SEN workshop with children and parents
National Space Centre

What are they and who are they for?

  • Sessions are 30 minutes long
  • Sessions include the of Smells of Space, Meteorite Handling and Mars Map Exploration activities, led by a Space Communications Presenter
  • Sessions are most suitable for those with visual impairments, or with SEN/SEND that need a quieter experience. Currently we do not have any members of staff trained in BSL to be able to deliver the sessions to visitors with hearing impairments.
  • Maximum number of 10 people per session (including carers)
Child with Orlan spacesuit glove in science busking session
Stuart Hollis

How to Book

We ask for a minimum of a week's notice to ensure we have a member of the team available to facilitate the session.

Please email [email protected] in the first instance with details of dates, times and size/needs of group.

We cannot guarantee space or staff availability (we cannot offer Sensory Sessions on Special/Premium Event weekends, or during busy school holiday periods). 

Please note - Sensory Sessions are offered to those who cannot access the full National Space Centre experience. They are not available to book as an add-on to a standard visit.