Library-goers will be over the moon with out-of-this-world event

The samples, on loan from the Science and Technology Facilities Council, have all been collected from impact sites around the world having travelled to earth from the moon and the far reaches of deep space.

They will be the star attraction in a hands-on family science day, which will include space-themed books and activities, interactive science stations, creative crafts for different ages and even the chance to take a VR tour of the International Space Station.

Charlotte Wood, librarian at Otley Community Hub and Library, said: “This is a real once-in-a-lifetime chance to get some hands-on experience with a fascinating collection of objects which will arrive in Otley having once been a fragment of our moon or spent millions of years hurtling through the depths of outer space.

“We’re incredibly excited and it’s not often we can tell people that a piece of the moon will be landing at their local library at the weekend.

“We’re hoping this event will capture the imaginations of space and science enthusiasts of all ages and might even inspire the next generation of astronauts.”

Saturday’s event runs from 10.30am until 3pm and is free to attend. There will also be a ticketed poetry and space workshop with award‑winning poet Matt Abbott which runs from 10.30am until 11.30am and is suitable for children aged seven and over. Booking for the workshop is essential.

Councillor Asghar Khan, Leeds City Council’s executive member for housing and hubs, said: “Having such an exciting and innovative programme of events in our libraries across Leeds gives our visitors and communities the chance to get involved with a huge range of activities which help bring our sites and collections to life.

“This weekend’s event will be truly out of this world and I’m sure it will be a thrilling and thought-provoking experience for everyone who attends.”

More information about the Touch the Moon event can be found at: Touch the Moon - part of Otley Science Festival | Leeds Inspired including how to book the poetry workshop.

More events for Otley Science Festival can also be found at: Otley Science Festival – Ideas go bang!

ENDS