As part of six weeks of astronomical summer activities, the NASA-inspired boot camp will take place in the Dynamic Earth Space Agency, a marquee outside the five-star visitor attraction where visitors will be put through their paces. Developed by the National Space Centre and based on actual NASA testing, 'Have you got the right stuff?' takes participants on a journey involving mental, visual and physical challenges. Successful candidates will receive a NASA Approved 'Pass' at the end to prove they have what it takes to become an astronaut of the future. Suitable for visitors of all ages, the tests cover everything from good eyesight through deciphering visual tricks to stamina based on exercise equipment and blood pressure monitoring. 

 

The Right Stuff Challenge is only part of Our Dynamic Earth's summer of fun, which also offers the more adventurous the chance to experience G-force by taking a whirl on the Spaceball gyroscope, developed by NASA to help astronauts prepare for G Force. In the main entrance, earth from the air photographs will be displayed on the central dome in the stratosphere, while in the new classroom suite drop-in storytelling and performances will take place four times a day on Fridays in July, and Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 5th to 21st August.

 

The Magic Planet Show invites visitors to take off on a voyage of discovery using the magic planet digital globe to journey through our solar system. Intricate displays of all the planets and their moons appear in full 3D, backed up with loads of facts and figures from Our Dynamic Earth's own space experts. 

 

For younger children the Space Rocks Storytelling sessions use a 'Britain's Got Talent' style competition to determine the best rock on earth and avoid aliens destroying the planet. The rocks sing about their different properties and the participants play the aliens, using individual voting pads to decide the winner. The show culminates in everyone getting together to create a comet in the room.

 

Commenting on the summer season at Our Dynamic Earth, marketing director, Catriona Cardie, said: "Whatever the weather our space-inspired summer will never be a washout. There is something for all ages and we have no doubt that even the adults will be tempted to have a go at the Right Stuff challenges just to prove they can do it! In the International Year of Astronomy, and with the 40th anniversary of the lunar landings, there is increased interest in finding out more about our galaxy and the universe beyond – and Our Dynamic Earth is just the place to start."

 

All attractions and show are free to enter with an Our Dynamic Earth Ticket. Space Rocks and Magic Planet Shows have capacity for 40 participants each, are available on key dates and on a first come basis.

 

ends

 ·          Drop-in shows will take place at 11.15 am, 14.15 pm, 15.15 pm and 16.15 pm on the

days of performances

·          The Right Stuff Challenge will not be operational during Homecoming Weekend, 25 & 26 July