Astronomer Royal for Scotland opens Aberdeen Science Centre

The Astronomer Royal for Scotland, Professor Catherine Heymans, has officially opened Aberdeen Science Centre following its £6million redevelopment.

Aberdeen Science Centre reopened to the public last November after a major project to create an aspirational science centre which reflects the STEM priorities for both industry and education. More than 60 new interactive exhibits over two floors now await visitors.  

Around 100 invited guests attended the official opening, where Professor Heymans unveiled a commemorative plaque to mark the centre’s transformation.  

An astrophysicist and a world-leading expert on the physics of the dark universe, Professor Heymans became the first woman to be named Astronomer Royal for Scotland earlier this year. Accepting the almost 200-year-old honorary title, she said she wants to use it to encourage people to develop passion for science and promote Scotland internationally as a world-leading centre for science. 

Professor Heymans said:

It is a great honour to join Aberdeen Science Centre in celebration of its reopening. A fantastic visitor attraction with outstanding interactive hands-on exhibits, Aberdeen Science Centre provides the perfect place for curious young minds to have fun exploring the wonderful world of science and technology.

The centre’s exhibits are aimed at all ages and are themed into six zones: Energy; Space; Life Sciences; Make It, Test It; and a dedicated area for the under-6s, as well as the Shell Learning Zone, where science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) are brought to life. New exhibits include RoboThespian, a chatty humanoid robot sponsored by the centre’s Digital Futures Partner, Equinor, and The OPITO Theatre of Energy – the UK’s first immersive experience of its kind.  

Bryan Snelling, Chief Executive of Aberdeen Science Centre, said:

We are delighted to welcome Professor Heymans and our invited special guests to mark the official opening of Aberdeen Science Centre following its fantastic redevelopment. This is a celebration of all the work that has gone into redeveloping the centre to transform it into a modern visitor attraction which showcases STEM innovations through educational and fun exhibits and events.