WORCESTER—Worcester is among the communities taking part in Massachusetts Space Week this month, as the statewide celebration of science, space and technology returns with more than 100 events across the Commonwealth.
Organized by The Space Consortium, the eighth annual Massachusetts Space Week runs April 20–26 and features programming at more than 85 partner institutions and over 45 venues statewide, according to an announcement. Many events are free and open to the public.
While much of the programming is centered in Greater Boston and Cambridge, Worcester hosts several events highlighting the city’s historic and ongoing ties to space science and innovation.
Among them is a concert at Mechanics Hall on April 19, where Worcester Polytechnic Institute musicians perform a centennial celebration of rocket pioneer Robert Goddard’s work. The program includes more than 200 student performers and features music inspired by space exploration, including selections from Gustav Holst’s “The Planets,” according to event organizers.
Later in the week, the Museum of Worcester hosts a free family event on April 24 celebrating Goddard’s legacy, with hands-on activities such as building model rockets, trying on a spacesuit and exploring images of Earth from space.
Nearby communities are also participating. In Auburn, the Auburn Public Library is hosting a portable planetarium program on April 24, offering children and families a guided look at stars, constellations and planets visible in Massachusetts.
Statewide, the weeklong event is expected to draw thousands of participants and includes lectures, film screenings, stargazing events and educational programs aimed at students and families. Organizers say this year’s theme, “Reaching the Sky,” is tied to renewed interest in space exploration, including NASA’s Artemis II mission.
“Thank you for your dedication to fostering space education and STEM discovery across Massachusetts,” Alissa J. Haddaji, founder and executive director of The Space Consortium and director of Massachusetts Space Week, said in the announcement. “As our statewide programming continues to grow, connecting communities, institutions, classrooms, experts, and learners of all ages, momentum and collaboration continue to build.”
Massachusetts Space Week is designed to coincide with school vacation week and Earth Day, with organizers aiming to make events accessible to families across the state.
