The Air and Space Institute Partners with Sherwood Observatory

The Air and Space Institute (ASI) has partnered with the Sherwood Observatory to inspire the next generation with STEM education. 

The Sherwood Observatory has secured £3.1 million from the Levelling Up Round 2 fund to build a new Science Discovery Centre and Planetarium. The aim is to provide young people access to cutting-edge STEM facilities, creating opportunities, and encouraging them to pursue engineering pathways. 

The partnership between ASI and the Sherwood Observatory means that students at ASI will have access to the observatory's state-of-the-art facilities, enriching their learning experience. The planetarium will offer an immersive learning experience, allowing students to explore the wonders of space and get them enthused about the aerospace sector.  

This partnership is an excellent opportunity for students to engage with science and technology in a hands-on way, fueling their curiosity and creativity. With access to such facilities, students will be able to gain practical skills and experience, preparing them for a career in the STEM field. 

Tom Marsden, Director of Strategic Growth, said “We are delighted to partner with the Sherwood Observatory ahead of their exciting science discovery centre and planetarium project.   

“Alongside the ASI this facility will improve the educational opportunities for Newark and Sherwood students, adults and school children.  It will also assist the region in generating broader business partnerships with those companies working in the rapidly growing UK Space sector and its supply chain.” 

Tom Cartledge, Co-Chair of the Newark Town Board, said: “I’m delighted that Newark Town Board, supported by Newark and Sherwood District Council, were successful in its bid for £25m as part of the Government’s Towns Fund initiative to bring the Air and Space Institute to life. 

“It’s fantastic to see the project make excellent progress and this new partnership with the Sherwood Observatory is another great milestone. It means aspiring students can get first-hand experience in studying science, technology, engineering and mathematics and will support them in achieving their further and higher education ambitions. 

“We hope this new working relationship shows that the Air and Space Institute can really be a place where students can fulfil their potential and that the town is making real aspirational growth through the projects part of Newark Town Board.” 

Steve Wallace, Planetarium Project Manager, said: "The future prosperity of the UK will depend on having a STEM-enabled workforce.  Both organisations have huge potential to inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers using the fantastic new facilities at the Air and Space Institute and in our Science Discovery Centre, Planetarium and Observatory. We see a lot of synergies between the two organisations and we are very much looking forward to working together." 

In a time where science and technology are crucial to the advancement of society, this partnership between ASI and the Sherwood Observatory is a step towards creating a more equitable and prosperous future for all. 

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