After Dark - Night Sky Live

Dates: Thursday 24th October 2024 Other dates available: 7th November
Location: Science Centre
Duration: 2 hours, see session times for details
Tickets: Adult £15, Child £10, Carers and under 3s free

Are you ready for a family astro adventure? Head outside with us and discover the stars and planets of the night sky, live!

Have you ever looked up into the sky at night and wondered what you’re seeing? Well now you don’t have to! Begin your Night Sky Live adventure in the Planetarium. Learn the skills you’ll need to identify what’s above us before following the stargazing host outside into the South Downs National Park. It’s the perfect spot to observe the stars, constellations and planets.

Night Sky Live is part of our After Dark evening events. Other dates are available. Head off on a new adventure each time as we explore something new together at each event. 

6:15pm arrival Night Sky Live ticket includes:

  • 6:30pm - Planetarium show
  • 7pm - Time to explore the two floors of hands-on interactive exhibits and opportunity to purchase drinks and snacks
  • 8pm - A hosted stargazing experience outside
  • 8:30pm - Departures
  • Stargazing guide to take home


7pm arrival Night Sky Live ticket includes:

  • 7:15pm - Planetarium show
  • 7:45pm - Time to explore the two floors of hands-on interactive exhibits and opportunity to purchase drinks and snacks
  • 8:45pm - A hosted stargazing experience outside
  • 9:15pm - Departures
  • Stargazing guide to take home


Don’t forget to dress for the weather. We also recommend bringing a torch and a blanket - it's great to stargaze while laying down. There will be no outdoor seating so feel free to bring a camping chair. 

Cloudy weather?

We all know the British weather is unpredictable! But don’t worry. If the clouds or rain get in our way, we’ll continue the experience inside from the comfort of the Planetarium.

Did you know...

Our location in the South Downs National Park is an International Dark Sky Reserve. That means that starry nights in the area have been declared as exceptional quality and the environment is protected for its scientific, natural and educational value. Wow!

Accessibility information for Night Sky Live

The Planetarium is accessible so everyone can have a special experience here. Every show is relaxed with quiet and calm presentations. It's not super dark and you can move around, go out and come back in if you like. If you have a wheelchair, we have spaces for you to sit with seats for your family and friends. The stairs have lights to make them easy to see.

The outdoor stargazing area is reached from the lower floor of the Science Centre. There is lift access. The space is mostly grass but there is a small hard-standing area if needed.