If your kids are currently obsessed with rockets, planets and “what’s beyond the stars?”, they’re not alone. Space is having a major moment right now and lucky for us, Adelaide has some incredible experiences to fuel that curiosity.
Whether you’ve got a future astronaut, a curious stargazer, or just kids who love a good immersive adventure, here are the best space-themed experiences in and around Adelaide.
Fun Fact: Did you know South Australia has its very own real-life astronauts? Andy Thomas grew up in Adelaide before blasting off into space and even living on the Mir space station. And more recently, Katherine Bennell-Pegg became Australia’s first female astronaut, working with the Australian Space Agency right here in Adelaide. So next time your kids are staring up at the stars, remind them that someone from their own backyard has already made it to space… and they could be next.
Adelaide Planetarium
Located at the University of South Australia Mawson Lakes campus, the Adelaide Planetarium is one of the top educational attractions for families interested in space.
Inside the domed theatre, children can explore constellations, planets and galaxies through engaging visual presentations. Sessions are designed to be both educational and entertaining, making complex space concepts easy to understand.
Best for: Primary school-aged children and older
Tip: Book in advance, especially during school holidays
Professor Brian Cox: Emergence
Wed 27 May 2026
Adelaide Entertainment Centre Arena
Professor Brian Cox returns to Australia with his brand new live show Emergence, following the huge success of his previous tour Horizons.
Known for his popular BBC science series including Wonders of the Solar System and The Planets, Brian brings science to life in a way that is fascinating, accessible and inspiring for curious minds.
Emergence explores some of the biggest questions about our Universe. From snowflakes and atoms to galaxies and black holes, the show looks at how the complex world around us is built from simple natural laws. It’s a journey through space, nature and the human mind, brought together with stunning visuals, music and storytelling.
This immersive live experience combines science, philosophy and art on one of the most advanced stage productions ever created, designed to spark curiosity and wonder in audiences of all ages.
Best for: Older Kids/Adults
Australian Space Discovery Centre
Located in the Adelaide CBD, the Australian Space Discovery Centre is a free, interactive attraction that showcases Australia’s role in space exploration.
This hands-on centre features interactive exhibits, space technology displays and real-time insights into current missions. It is an excellent way to introduce children to STEM concepts in an engaging environment.
Highlights include:
Interactive displays
Space industry exhibits
Mission tracking technology
Educational activities for kids
Best for: School-aged children
Milky Way Season
From May to August 2026 the bright, dense centre of the Milky Way becomes clearly visible in the night sky. It is one of the most breathtaking things you can see without a telescope and really sparks curiosity about space.
You’ll need a clear dark night on a new moon or low moonlight. Best viewing spots are Adelaide Hills, Fleurieu Peninsula or Flinders Ranges
MOD. Adelaide
MOD. at the University of South Australia offers immersive exhibitions focused on science, technology and the future.
While not solely dedicated to space, many exhibitions explore themes related to the universe, innovation and scientific discovery. The interactive format encourages curiosity and critical thinking.
Best for: Tweens and teenagers
Tip: It’s Free!
Star Gazing in the Flinders Ranges
Join one of the weekly Coodlie Under the Stars Stargazing Tours under some of the darkest skies in Australia! With class one rated skies, zero light pollution and moonless new moon nights, you will be able to see the Milky Way, the Southern Cross, Magellanic Clouds, Galaxies, and much, much more!
Led by your star-guide, this 90-120 minute immersive tour blends astronomy, science, storytelling, and Indigenous perspectives for an unforgettable evening under the stars.
Adults (16+): $30.00 | Children (5–15): $12.50
Star Parties at Hawthorndene Oval
Keep your eyes out for an upcoming Star Party hosted by The Astronomical Society of South Australia.
Eta Aquariid Meteor Shower
5–6 May 2026
This is one of the best meteor showers visible from the Southern Hemisphere. Expect fast, bright “shooting stars” around 10-20 per hour. Best seen just before sunrise.
The Best Star Gazing Locations in South Australia
South Australia offers some of the best stargazing locations in Australia, thanks to its wide open spaces and low light pollution. Just outside the city, the Adelaide Hills and Fleurieu Peninsula provide easy access to darker skies, making them ideal for families wanting a quick stargazing escape. For even more spectacular night skies, head further afield to regions like the Flinders Ranges, Eyre Peninsula or the Riverland, where the Milky Way is often visible to the naked eye on clear nights.
Popular spots include national parks, beaches and rural lookouts where there is minimal artificial light and uninterrupted views of the sky. For the best experience, plan your visit on a clear night during a new moon and allow time for your eyes to adjust to the darkness.
- Adelaide Hills – Just 20 to 30 minutes from the city, the Adelaide Hills is one of the easiest places to escape light pollution. Head to quiet lookouts or reserves for clear views of the night sky without travelling too far.
- Fleurieu – The coastline south of Adelaide offers dark skies combined with ocean views. Beaches around Victor Harbor and Port Elliot are great for relaxed family stargazing nights.
- Flinders Ranges – One of the best stargazing destinations in Australia, the Flinders Ranges delivers incredibly dark skies and breathtaking views of the Milky Way. Ideal for a weekend trip or school holiday adventure.
- Eyre Peninsula – Offers minimal light pollution and excellent conditions for spotting constellations, planets and meteor showers.
- Riverland – Combines wide open skies with peaceful riverside settings. Pair stargazing with camping or a weekend getaway.
Know a great stargazing spot or space experience we’ve missed? Let us know so we can add it to the list.
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Ready for take-off? Launch your intergalactic voyage at the Adelaide Planetarium! Home to the only planetarium in Adelaide that is open to the public all year round, the Adelaide Planetarium is based at the University of South Australia’s Mawson Lakes campus, and offers a unique, interactive experience to explore the universe, galaxy and solar system. Marvel as you journey across space and time from the comfort of your seat, with realistic projections of the constellations, showcasing the position of the Sun, Moon, planets and stars on the Planetarium’s iconic domed ceiling. Following a celestial tour of the night sky, you will experience a full-dome movie including titles such as Tycho to the Moon, Starlight, Cosmic Collisions, Wildest Weather in the Solar System, and Astronaut, just to name a few. The Adelaide Planetarium is open on select Saturdays of every month all year round and offers an extensive school holiday program. Whether you are a school group, a family or an astronomy buff, the Planetarium’s astronomers will make your visit out of this world! Night Sky ExperienceJourney into outer space with a highly experienced astronomer. Discover the solar system, stars and constellations, including indigenous and traditional star lore and mythology. MoviesThere are a variety…
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5, 4, 3, 2 ,1..............Hey Adelaide, are you ready to get excited about space?The Australian Space Discovery Centre (ASDC) has landed at in the McEwin Building at Lot Fourteen (North Terrace, Adelaide) and is open to the public! (click here to book your visit now) The Discovery Centre aims to inspire the next generation of the space workforce with stories of innovation, curiosity and technology. It offers a place for the community to meet and explore the latest innovations in space technologies and where you can learn about Australia’s role in expanding national and international space activities. The Botanic Gardens tram stop is right outside the door, so public transport is a great option. Entrance is free but bookings are essential as your visit runs in sessions. We were one of the first lucky people through the doors and our older boys loved the hands on learning experience. Younger kids will love the interactive exhibits but older kids will definitely get more out of the exhibits and what they actually mean. Also the centre's main objective really is to serve the purpose of vocation info for the industry. A full introduction and briefing takes place in the Mission Control Centre,…
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