Blast off for an out-of-this-world adventure to the moon

The Moon: Meet Our Nearest Neighbour, a touring exhibition from Bespoke Scientific, touches down at The Hold Ipswich from 26 June to 19 September.
Published: 22 Jun 2026

The chance to touch a real moon rock, marvel at a giant inflatable solar system, and explore Suffolk’s space stories awaits adventurers to Suffolk Archives’ free, family friendly summer exhibition.

The Moon: Meet Our Nearest Neighbour, a touring exhibition from Bespoke Scientific, touches down at The Hold Ipswich from 26 June to 19 September.

A solar system installation suspended from the ceiling of The Hold in Ipswich
The exhibition includes a giant, inflatable, solar system installation by Glow Inflatables suspended from the ceiling of The Hold in Ipswich, the home of Suffolk Archives. Credit: Suffolk Archives

Discover the science and mythology of the moon. Re-live historic moments in lunar discovery, including how the space race unfolded and the lead up to the 1969 moon landing. Explore how the moon influences our natural environment from tides and seas to nighttime animals.

Learn about Alice Grace Cook, a pioneering female astronomer from Stowmarket. Search for the truth behind the mystery of the Rendlesham UFO. Look to the sky with local astronomical groups to understand how you can safely observe its wonders closer to home.

There is loads happening alongside the exhibition.

Blast off with the pop-up Wonder Dome Planetarium in August. Fully immersive shows that’ll take you on a thrilling trip through the cosmos and its many wonders - from the birth of planets to the death of stars.

Book on to Suffolk Archives’ space-themed craft sessions, including relaxed options; and look out for free craft pop-ups in Suffolk Libraries. The Hold also has star-studded films for littles one with WALL-E and E.T. and a fun trail.

A photo of an astronaut in space.
The exhibition will include two visits from the pop-up Wonder Dome Planetarium, a fully immersive cosmic adventure for all ages. Credit: Wonder Dome Planetarium

Enjoy a step-free Stars of Science walk highlighting Ipswich’s contributions to science and exploration. There are also talks about Suffolk archaeologist Basil Brown’s work in astronomy and an evening with Space East about technological developments happening here in Suffolk.

Cllr June Mummery, Suffolk County Council’s cabinet member for coastal affairs, communities and public health, said:

“This is a really fun and inspiring exhibition that I think people of all ages will love. It’s a great mix of hands‑on science, big ideas and local stories, and a brilliant way for families to spend time together over the summer – maybe even sparking a new interest in space exploration.”

Find out more and book tickets: www.suffolkarchives.co.uk