The story is about Vladimir the polar bear and James the penguin, who meet at the North Pole; they then try to understand why their respective homes have such long winters.

Using Vladimir’s ingenious construction skills and James’ scientific knowledge they take a journey into space to observe the Earth, and compare their observations with other planets in the solar system.

Their journey is not all plain-sailing, and we share some of their adventures on their quest for knowledge.

Show length 28min, all ages, ideal for young families.

Show times: 12noon (captioned) and 2.15pm

Presenter-led show looking in detail at the highlights of the current night sky.

Show length 25min, suitable for ages 5+

Show times: 11am and 1.30pm

Discover the essential aspects of an astronomical observatory, and a broader view of how astronomy is done. From site-testing to locate the best places in the world for observing the sky, to how telescopes are built and what mysteries of the Universe astronomers are revealing.

Meet the European Southern Observatory in a story of cosmic curiosity, courage and perseverance; a story of observing a Universe of deep mysteries and hidden secrets; and a story of designing, building and operating the most powerful ground-based telescopes on the planet.

Show length 32min, suitable for ages 5+

Show times: 12.30pm, 3pm