This month marks 80 years since the first observations at Jodrell Bank – on 14th December 1945.
In that time, its inspirational history of research and technology has captured the imaginations of scientists and visitors alike.
Jodrell Bank’s story includes revolutionary discoveries, incredible feats of engineering, the dawn of the space age and the creation of the Grade I listed radio telescope for which it is most well-known.
It has even played host to a spectacular series of concerts and live music festivals.
In 2019, Jodrell Bank was officially listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, in recognition of its internationally significant contribution across science, heritage and culture.
The site is owned by The University of Manchester and incorporates the Jodrell Bank Centre for Astrophysics, a world-leading research institute.
It is also home to the Jodrell Bank Centre for Engagement, a space where the public can learn more about physics and astronomy, and the site’s storied past.
And for people planning a visit in the near future, there are plenty of opportunities to take part in a varied programme of events and shows.
The line-up for early 2026 includes the exhibition of a community quilt project, Cosmic Threads, and a Lovell Lecture by professor of astrophysics René Breton.
And while there’s no announcement about the return of Bluedot festival, here’s what we know is coming soon to Jodrell Bank:
Gemini and Mercury Remastered – photography exhibition
- Last chance to see: on until 4th January 2026
- Free with general admission
- Discover the magic of early space exploration through the lens of NASA restoration expert and bestselling author Andy Saunders. His latest exhibition features the first and finest photographs from humanity’s early journeys to space.
Cosmic Threads – Jodrell Bank’s community quilt
- New Exhibition: 24th January 2026 – 29th March 2026
- Included with general admission ticket
- In honour of Jodrell Bank’s 80th anniversary, a partnership with textile artist Anne Kelly has seen the creation of an extraordinary community quilt, featuring more than 200 contributions from members of the public. The finished quilt will be displayed as a symbol of the connection between science, creativity and community.
Lovell Lecture – Be the Astronomer
- 29th January, 7.30-9pm
- Tickets from £12
- René Breton, professor of astrophysics at Jodrell Bank, invites you to join a unique “choose-your-own-adventure” lecture, where audiences can investigate an astronomical transient (phenomena that change their brightness over a relatively short time) and experience cosmic discovery first-hand.
February half term at Jodrell Bank
- 14th – 22th February 2026
- Save 10% on general admission when you book online
- Launch into February half term with an out-of-this-world adventure at Jodrell Bank, including a brand new science show based on NASA’s Artemis programme plus cosmic crafts and a site trail packed full of stellar discoveries.
Dome Show – Ted’s Space Adventure
- February half term, selected dates
- Tickets £5, under 4s free of charge, add-on at booking
- Join Ted and Plant on an interactive journey through the Solar System in the Space Dome. The show is packed with music and rhyme, and is a perfect introduction to the planets for little space explorers aged 2-5 years.
Dome Show – One Step Beyond: A Journey to Mars
- Weekends and holidays, 1pm
- Tickets £5, add-on at booking
- From rocket launches to life aboard a spacecraft, learn about NASA’s cutting-edge Artemis programme and the search for life beyond Earth as humanity prepares for its next big journey – Mars. This new show is narrated by Richard Armitage.
Dome Show: The Great Solar System Adventure
- Weekends, 11am and 3pm
- Tickets £5, add-on at booking
- Journey to the stars with this special show and learn about the wonders of the Solar System in an immersive planetarium-style adventure.
Relaxed mornings
- First Sunday of each month: 4th January and 1st February, 10-11am
- Relaxed openings offer a calmer start to the day for anyone who might appreciate it. They feature reduced noise and light levels, a relaxed screening of The Story of Jodrell Bank plus a designated quiet space.
For more information about events, or to book, visit: www.jodrellbank.net
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