Gauteng’s young explorers are preparing for lift-off this October as the Sci-Bono Discovery Centre in Newtown turns the school holidays into a hands-on cosmic adventure. From 4 to 12 October 2025, the centre will host its much-anticipated Space Science Holiday Programme, a vibrant mix of learning, play, and discovery that turns curiosity into exploration.
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This year’s theme, “Discover, Imagine & Explore,” captures the energy of the programme. Children will launch rockets, test gravity, and dive into the mysteries of the universe through interactive shows and experiments.
“Turn holiday time into discovery time,” urges the Sci-Bono team and that’s exactly what this programme does. Each activity combines storytelling and science to help kids see how physics, biology, and imagination connect in the real world.
Why Space Science Matters
Interest in space starts early for many children, but can fade when science feels distant. Sci-Bono bridges that gap by letting learners do science, to build, test, and experiment like real scientists.
As one of Africa’s leading science centres, Sci-Bono has inspired thousands of young people to see science as part of daily life. This holiday programme continues that mission, showing that curiosity is the most powerful teacher.
A Week of Discovery
Each day offers new experiments, challenges, and performances designed to fire up young minds.
| Activity | What Happens | Ages | Cost | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| My Weight in Space | Compare your weight on Mars, Jupiter, and Earth while exploring how gravity shifts across planets. | All | Free | Exhibition Floor |
| Rocket Chute | Build and launch a rocket powered by air and elasticity, then recover it safely by parachute. | 8 + | Free | Outdoor Area |
| Solar System Show | Travel through the solar system in an immersive indoor journey that reveals how vast — and close — space really feels. | 8 + | Free | Exhibition Floor |
| Tales Behind the Full Moon | Discover the myths, science, and cultural meanings of the full moon and its cycles. | All | Free | Exhibition Floor |
| Straw Rocket | Test paper rockets for speed and accuracy while learning how shape and mass affect flight. | All | Free | Exhibition Floor |
| Bionics in Space | Explore how animal biology inspires futuristic space technology — from movement to materials. | 8 + | Free | Exhibition Floor |
| Planetarium Shows | Take a seat and journey to the stars in a 360° visual experience that brings planets and galaxies to life. | All | R20 | Exhibition Floor |
| Space Science Shows | Watch young Sci-Bono scientists perform explosive experiments that reveal the science behind space. | All | Free | Marie Curie Theatre |
For Every Curious Mind
Most activities are free and open to all ages. Sci-Bono’s lively facilitators guide children through each experience, combining humour, storytelling, and practical science.
Whether your child dreams of space travel or simply loves exploring how things work, this programme offers something for every curious mind.
The Power of Play and Discovery
Here, children don’t just watch science, they make it. “Kids learn best when they play and discover,” said a Sci-Bono facilitator. “By linking experiments to everyday life, we show that learning can be empowering and fun.”
This approach builds problem-solving and teamwork skills while encouraging creative thinking. Participants tackle real-world questions: Why does gravity vary from planet to planet? How do rockets lift off? Can nature’s design improve technology in space?
A Family Destination
Located in the heart of Newtown’s cultural district, Sci-Bono remains one of Johannesburg’s top family destinations. With over 400 interactive exhibits and workshops running year-round, it’s a perfect mix of education and entertainment.
While children immerse themselves in space adventures, parents can explore Newtown’s vibrant cafés, art spaces, and museums — making it a full-day family outing.
Inspiring South Africa’s Future Scientists
Beyond the fun, the programme supports a national goal: developing the next generation of scientists and innovators. As South Africa expands its focus on astronomy and satellite technology, inspiring young minds to see themselves in science has never been more crucial.
By transforming abstract ideas into hands-on experiments, Sci-Bono helps children build confidence and curiosity, traits that will shape South Africa’s scientific future.
Know Before You Go
Dates: 4 – 12 October 2025
Venue: Sci-Bono Discovery Centre, Newtown, Johannesburg
Admission: Free for most activities | R20 for Planetarium Shows
Ages: All ages welcome
Website: www.sci-bono.co.za
Make Space for Science
This October, trade screens for stars and let curiosity lead the way. From building rockets to watching galaxies spin across the planetarium dome, every moment at Sci-Bono turns imagination into insight.
Don’t miss the Sci-Bono Space Science Holiday Programme (4–12 October 2025), where discovery begins, and Gauteng’s next generation of explorers take flight.
