London Welcomes Space Enthusiasts to New Museum Gallery Featuring Historic Apollo Capsule
The Science Museum in London unveils its 'Space' gallery, featuring the Apollo 10 command module, alongside UK tech innovations. A must-see for space lovers!
Space exploration enthusiasts are in for a treat with the recent unveiling of the “Space” gallery at the Science Museum in London. This new exhibit proudly showcases the iconic Apollo 10 command module, the only spacecraft to have carried astronauts to the moon and now on display outside of the United States. According to collectSPACE.com, the relaunch of this gallery promises to enchant visitors, blending the allure of historic space missions with modern technological advancements.
An Historic Display
The Apollo 10 module, on loan from the Smithsonian Institution, is now a centerpiece of the exhibit. Ian Blatchford, the museum’s director, describes how the “Space” gallery allows visitors to explore the marvels of space exploration. The gallery, replacing the nearly 40-year-old “Exploring Space” exhibit, offers a fresh perspective on humanity’s celestial adventures.
Bridging Past and Present
A unique feature of the gallery is the positioning of the Apollo command module side-by-side with a Russian Soyuz descent module. Visitors can delve into the fascinating history of these vehicles while marveling at innovative tech from the UK space sector. The gallery also honors the UK’s contributions to space exploration, featuring the Sokol suit worn by Helen Sharman, the first Briton in space.
Innovations in Space Technology
In addition to historical displays, the “Space” gallery highlights cutting-edge advancements like the Magdrive propulsion technology, Space Forge’s Pridwen heat shield, and the LEMUR2 nanosatellite from Spire. These exhibits showcase the vibrant future of the UK space sector and underline the importance of innovation in modern space travel.
A Visual Feast
Visitors are greeted by a stunning wall-length mural depicting a scene from Apollo 17, created by Andy Saunders. This artistic interpretation adds to the immersive experience, offering a backdrop that inspires awe and imagination.
Engaging Experiences
The museum offers additional interactive experiences, including a weekend Space Show and special “Astronights” sleepovers for children. For movie lovers, the nearby IMAX theatre is hosting a series of space films, further feeding the curiosity of all who visit.
This exhibit is more than just a gallery—it’s a journey through time and space, a testament to human ingenuity, and a celebration of the UK’s contributions to the field. For anyone fascinated by the cosmos, the Science Museum’s “Space” gallery is a must-visit destination.