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British Council Science
Earth, mars and sun © Digital Vision
European Space Agency's Mars Express may find some clues...
Life on Mars?
Exploring the solar system
Nebula © Digital Vision
For planetary scientists, 2003 to 2005 is an age of discovery.  The European Space Agency and NASA have sent a fleet of spacecraft to explore our Solar System. The data that these missions send back will tell us about the origins of the planets and give us clues to how life began on Earth. Read more about Exploring the Solar System.
The United Kingdom has played an important role in these missions, by both developing spacecraft and instrumentation and by interpreting the scientific results.  British Council offices around the world are working with the scientists and engineers involved to celebrate these exciting missions and highlight the importance of discoveries made.  The Exploring the Solar System website will keep you updated with the latest news on events and gives you a guide to the United Kingdom’s space programme and available resources.
The Missions (a-r)
Find out more about the missions Cassini Huygens, Genesis, Mars Express and Rosetta (in alphabetical order)
Crater on the Moon © Digital Vision
The Missions (s-z)
Read about the missions SMART-1, Stardust and Venus Express that the UK are involved with. (in alphabatical order).
Crater on the moon © Digital Vision
The Exhibition
See where the touring British Council exhibition is heading to next and other activities taking place that you may be able to get involved with.
Crater on the moon © Digital Vision
The Space Industry
What are the strengths of the UK in the space industry? Find out more information and suggested websites you can visit for further reading.
Crater on the moon c Digital Vision
Space research and higher education
Are you interested in research in space science and astronomy? We have a full list of undergraduate and postgraduate course and opportunities in the UK.
Crater on the moon © Digital Vision
Resources
We have provided a selection of useful resources for teachers, English language teachers and the wider public around the missions and space exploration.
Crater on the moon © Digital Vision
Briefing sheet to download
You may download and reproduce this briefing sheet which provides a guide to the UK's Space programme which is now undergoing a period of growth and increased government investment.
Crater on the moon © Digital Vision
Café Scientifique
Exploring the solar system is stimulating discussions across the British Council network. Read about the planned events.
Cafe scientifique logo
Online space games
Play space games online like alien invaders and try the constellation quiz!
Mission update
Scientists 'hopeful' for Genesis
Visiting Venus
Try this travel guide to the solar system
Space travel
Take a 3D tour of the planets
Solar system jigsaw
See if you can piece together the universe online
Contract awarded to the UK
One of the most ambitious space missions ever flown is to be deleloped in the UK.
Stunning images from Saturn probe
See images from Saturn which may reveal the origin of the planet's famous rings
UK Science Minister's vision

International co-operation key to future success in space
The United Kingdom’s international organisation for cultural relations and educational opportunities.
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