Tūhura Tuarangi (meaning ‘to discover space’) – Aotearoa in Space is a mobile science showcase that inspires young people and their families to explore Aotearoa New Zealand’s long history of living by the stars and current directions in space research and technology.
Through hands-on experiences, visitors discover space practices, technologies, and tools developed and used in Aotearoa; from recognising important stars and astronomical cycles, to building satellites, launching rockets, flying a space plane, and creating (and igniting) rocket fuel. These experiences are framed within traditional Māori narratives that speak to indigenous understandings of the night sky and Aotearoa’s journeys towards unknown horizons, past, present, and future.
The showcase is also complemented by expert talks, livestreams, and other space-related events and makerspaces. These initiatives further emphasise that careers in space are accessible and a foundation in STEM can lead to exciting opportunities.