The Science Museum in London is revamping its space exhibition, moving key artifacts like the Apollo 10 command module and Soyuz TMA-19M capsule to a new gallery. The “Exploring Space” section closes on April 22. Temporary displays will remain until June 2, showcasing space food, replica spacecraft, and plans for a more comprehensive space collection over the next five years.
The Science Museum in London is relocating notable space artifacts to a new “Space” gallery, closing its long-standing “Exploring Space” exhibit. This includes the only Apollo command module flown to the moon displayed outside the U.S., the Soyuz TMA-19M spacecraft that returned UK astronaut Tim Peake, and the Sokol spacesuit worn by the first British astronaut, Helen Sharman, during her 1991 mission.
Visitors have until April 22 to explore the current exhibits before parts are removed for conservation. Along with Sharman’s suit, the Black Arrow rocket and various rocket engines are also departing, including displays of the Scout rocket and RL-10 engine, pivotal in sending missions throughout the solar system.
From April 23 to June 2, visitors can still view a selection of space-related items, including space food, a microgravity toilet, and replicas of significant space crafts such as the Apollo 11 lunar module “Eagle” and ESA’s Huygens Titan lander.
The Apollo 10 command module, which served as a rehearsal for the first lunar landing, will be moved to the new gallery to be shown alongside the Soyuz capsule. This exhibit will highlight U.S. and Russian crewed spacecraft together, offering a unique perspective.
The new gallery will feature various modern space technologies, such as a model of BepiColombo, which aims to reach Mercury, and innovative propulsion systems and heat shields designed for satellite operations. The Science Museum Group also plans to enhance its space collection over the next five years, aiming for a broader representation of international space exploration.
The Science Museum’s transition to a new Space gallery marks an important update in showcasing significant space artifacts. Key items moving include the Apollo 10 command module and various spacecraft that highlight human achievements in space travel. Visitors can still engage with select exhibits until the final closure.
Original Source: www.collectspace.com