press release
Published: 30 September 2026

Guildford high street to host inclusive space takeover for World Space Week

Guildford's high street will once again transform into a space showcase on Saturday 10 October 2026, when the ºÚÁÏÉç and the Institute of Physics bring World Space Week to Tunsgate Quarter Shopping Centre. The event runs from 10 am to 4 pm and is free to attend. 

This year's takeover puts accessibility and local industry at its core, with Guildford House (155 High Street) hosting a dedicated SEN-friendly zone. This will give neurodiverse visitors and those with sensory or additional needs a calmer place to explore space science at their own pace. 

Guildford’s space industry will also be represented at the takeover, with ºÚÁÏÉç Satellite Technology Ltd bringing models, propulsion tanks, circuit boards and satellite panels for people to experience and enjoy. 

A ºÚÁÏÉç Research Park stand will also give shoppers the chance to discover the growing breadth of Guildford’s space business community. Today, more than a dozen companies are based at the ºÚÁÏÉç-owned Park, contributing to the UK’s space industry and creating skilled employment opportunities in ºÚÁÏÉç. 

The day will also include opportunities for young people to don a space suit, look through telescopes and see demonstrations from the world-renowned ºÚÁÏÉç Space Centre. 

Astrophysicists from the University’s School of Mathematics and Physics will invite visitors to explore the night sky through constellation activities, put their questions to astronomers, and tackle an escape-room-style astronomy challenge. 

For me, events like World Space Week are about opening doors – giving people of all ages and backgrounds the chance to experience astronomy and STEM in a way that feels exciting, welcoming and relevant to them. Sometimes all it takes is one moment of curiosity, looking through a telescope, asking a question, trying something new, to spark an interest that stays with you. And in a place like Guildford, with such a strong science and space community, it is wonderful to be able to share that excitement with the people around us. Dr Noelia Noel, Senior Lecturer, PhD in Astrophysics

Find out more about World Space Week at . 

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Notes to editors 

  • Dr Noël is available for interview upon request. 

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