PROJECT W5 - SPACE INCOMING
Classification: Active
Location: W5, Northern Ireland’s Award-Winning Science & Discovery Centre
Duration: 23 May - 31 August
Objective: Prepare the next generation of space explorers
MISSION OVERVIEW
Earth’s space agencies are preparing for the next era of exploration - lunar bases, Mars missions, and journeys deeper into space than ever before.
These missions require more than astronauts. They require engineers, scientists, designers, and problem-solvers working together.
To support this effort, the W5 Space Explorer Academy has launched as a dedicated Northern Hemisphere base.
Your assignment begins here.
MISSION OBJECTIVES
During your time at the W5 Space Explorer Academy, there will be several mission objectives to complete across the building.
MISSION ENTRY: COSMIC KIDS HQ
Objective: Activate imagination systems.
- Design a spacecraft for deep space travel
- Sketch alien environments and unknown worlds
- Plan your route beyond Earth
Creativity is your primary tool. There are no limits - only potential.
LAUNCH SEQUENCE INITIATED: 3… 2… 1…
Objective: Transition to orbital environment.
- Board the launchpad to the spacecraft
- Experience launch countdown and lift-off sequence
- Discover real artefacts from space exploration, including moon rock samples and astronaut equipment
Subsystem: Draw Alive - Space Creations
- Design rockets, robots, and alien lifeforms
- Watch creations come to life through interactive projection systems
- Integrate imagination into active mission systems
ENGINEERING DIRECTIVE: ROCKET BUILD CHALLENGE
Objective: Design, construct, and optimise launch systems
- Build air-powered rockets from raw materials
- Adjust shape, balance, and aerodynamics
- Launch and evaluate performance outcomes
- Refine and rebuild for improved results
Outcome: Award eligibility for Cosmic Launcher Certification
SURFACE OPERATION: MARS ROVER CONTROL
Objective: Navigate unknown terrain
- Operate a remote Mars rover across uneven terrain
- Avoid obstacles and adapt to unpredictable surface conditions
- Complete navigation objectives under precision constraints
Outcome: Award eligibility for Rover Engineer Certification
POST-MISSION PROCEDURE: ZERO-GRAVITY PHOTO
Objective: Capture mission completion record
- Enter the zero-gravity simulation photo zone
- Record commemorative astronaut imagery
- Secure mission souvenir for the return archive
MISSION COMPLETION
W5 Space is an immersive, hands-on experience packed with exploration, creativity, and problem-solving for all ages.
Each mission is designed to challenge thinking, encourage experimentation, and develop skills essential for future exploration.
Upon completion, all W5 Space Explorers are awarded the Mission Accomplished Certificate, evidence of successful training within the Space Explorer Academy.
Prepare for launch. Your mission begins at W5 this Summer.
W5 - Space will run daily until 31 August
This experience is included with general admission. Pre-booking your visit to W5 is essential.