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FIRST BLACK ASTRONAUT TO VISIT LEICESTER FOR SCIENCE FESTIVAL
By 24 Hour Museum Staff	17/02/2005

shows a poster for the Festival of Science and Culture 2005

The Festival of Science and Culture celebrates cultural diversity in science. © National Space Centre

The National Space Centre in Leicester is to host the Festival of Science and Culture 2005 from March 9 – 13.

The five-day festival coincides with National Science Week and is designed to celebrate the cultural diversity of scientific achievement. Events include workshops, a carnival and a visit by Dr Bernard Harris (the first black astronaut to walk in space).

Dr Harris said; "I am looking forward to returning to the United Kingdom. I am excited by the opportunity to share my experiences in space travel with everyone in Leicester and the surrounding areas."

A veteran of two space flights, Dr. Harris has logged more than 438 hours in space. Picture courtesy: National Space Centre

shows a photo-portrait of an astronaut in an orange space suit stood before a stars and stripes flag

This year marks the 10th anniversary of his groundbreaking space walk and Dr Harris will be giving talks and workshops to invited groups and members of the general public.

The week of events kicks off on March 9, with activities for school and community groups. This year, the organisers are specifically looking to attract more community groups to a range of free activity days.

On March 12 and 13 the Festival will culminate in a free weekend for families and visitors to the National Space Centre, with mouth-watering cuisine, steel bands, music workshops, space themed events, simulated space missions and a chance to meet the astronaut, Dr Harris.

shows a group of schoolchildern in a control room at the National Space Centre

Sarah Rusholme, Operations Director at the National Space Centre said; “We are really thrilled to have Dr Harris with us and hope his amazing achievements will inspire children from all communities to enjoy science and think seriously about careers in this field.”

The first ever Festival of Science and Culture was held at the National Space Centre in Leicester in June 2003. Since then the organisers have been working to inspire young black and mixed heritage people to think about careers in science, technology and engineering.

The Festival of Science and Culture 2005 is funded by COPUS, PPARC and Leicester City Council Community Cohesion Fund.

To find out more about community activities and opportunities call Miss Kaajal Kotecha on 0116 2610261 or email kaajalk@spacecentre.co.uk

For more general information on the Festival visit the website at www.festivalofscienceandculture.co.uk


National Space Centre, Leicester
	National Space Centre, Exploration Drive, Leicester, LE4 5NS, Leicestershire, England T: 0870 607 7223 Open: School Term Time - Tue-Sun 10am to 5pm (last entry 3.30pm) School Holidays - Mon-Sun 10am to 5pm (last entry 3.30pm) Closed: Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Years Day

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Information published here was believed to be correct at the time it was prepared. Welsh language pages developed with CYMAL: Museums Archives and Libraries Wales, funded by the Welsh Assembly Government.