To boldly go: UK Space Agency rocket to land in Hull
LANDING IN HULL: A replica rocket from the UK Space Agency, pictured at Swansea's National Waterfront Museum
By Simon Bristow
A replica rocket from the UK Space Agency will land in Hull next month to highlight careers available for young people in the space industry.
The 72-ft rocket will be in Queen Victoria Square for five days from August 17 as part of the agency’s Space for Everyone tour.
The tour will “showcase the role of space in improving life on Earth, while highlighting the diverse and varied career paths open to young people looking to enter the fast-growing space industry”, Hull City Council said.
Trained hosts and industry experts will be on hand to share more about the role of satellites and the varied careers available in the UK space sector.
Councillor Rob Pritchard, city council portfolio holder for culture and leisure, said: “We’re delighted to welcome the rocket to the city centre, allowing the next generation to see first-hand what it’s really like to work in the space sector.
“Hull is one of only ten locations the Space for Everyone tour is visiting, and it’s highlighting the opportunities within the space industry for people of all backgrounds.
“You don’t need to be a rocket scientist to get involved – but it could possibly lead to that!”
Ian Annett, deputy CEO at the UK Space Agency, said: “Our Space For Everyone tour is an exciting opportunity for our next generation to see first-hand what it is really like to work in the space sector and to learn about careers here in Yorkshire, which is already home to a thriving space industry.
“The space sector requires various skills – many not traditionally associated with it – and champions inclusivity and innovation.
“You don’t have to be a rocket scientist, as there are a host of skills and talents needed to bring space closer to our daily lives and improve our understanding of this critical part of the environment for the benefit of the planet and its people.”
The roadshow is free to attend and will be open from 9am to 5pm from August 17 to 19, from 10am to 4pm on August 20, and from 9am to 3pm on August 21.
See our review of astronaut Chris Hadfield, former Commander of the International Space Station, speaking at Hull’s Bonus Arena here
Become a Patron of The Hull Story. For just £2.50 a month you can help support this independent journalism project dedicated to Hull. Find out more here