The Science and Industry Museum hosts a captivating programme of adult-friendly events and exhibitions this October

While the Science and Industry Museum is renowned for its endless array of fascinating family-friendly activities, events and exhibitions, there’s also plenty of fun for inquisitive adults to enjoy this October with a diverse programme of talks, after-hours specials, quizzes and more.

On Fri 18 Oct, the museum kicks off Manchester Science Festival with an enthralling In Conversation panel about AI and its untapped potential for the future of space exploration.

From remote rover navigation and automated piloting to satellite design and ‘space junk’ disposal, the UK Space agency’s Head of Space Exploration Libby Jackson OBE joins STEM advocate, social entrepreneur and social scientist Dr. Anne-Marie Imafidon MBE to discuss the boundless possibilities of AI’s ascent to the cosmos, and how the far-flung wonders of science fiction may one day become a reality.

If you fancy making a night of it, you can pre-order an exclusive ‘AI cocktail’ or mocktail ahead of the event. Click HERE to book.

The following evening, the festival’s specially curated AI-themed weekend programme enters full swing with the Cosmic Quiz, where individual competitors and teams of up to 4 can take part in an entertaining competitive trivia session featuring surprise rounds, pop-up performances and fascinating facts staged in partnership with The Quiz Team. Click HERE to book your space.

On Sat 26 Oct, a one-off adults-only After Hours spectacular celebrates the final weekend of the festival with a night of art, interactive fun and exclusive access to various exhibits.

Beginning at 7pm, guests can explore the immersive light and sound installation, State of Mind, before experiencing the thunderous sounds of industry in the Textiles Gallery and watch volunteers run the replica Baby – the ancestor of all modern computers – in Revolution Manchester. Elsewhere, visitors can enjoy interactive performances, a zine and a digital display inspired by the Festival themes of sport science and space. Click HERE to book.

Running during After Hours and throughout the programme, the ‘ultimate gaming experience’ Power Up invites you to rediscover your inner child and play your way through over fifty years of video games consoles with hundreds of classic titles on offer.

Open in the main exhibition space, Injecting Hope: The Race for a COVID-19 Vaccine offers a stirring, immersive recollection of the incredible efforts of scientists, volunteers and Manchester’s heroic citizens during the pandemic.

Featuring inspirational stories, captivating artwork, video footage and original objects including Nightingale Hospital beds and Andy Burnham’s iconic worker jacket, the exhibition charts the remarkable response to the world-changing viral spread both across Manchester and throughout the global community.

Click below to find out more.