From coral reefs and Minecraft to Jupiter’s aurora, visitors will be able to enjoy out-of-this-world activities in Lancaster University’s Family Zone at this year’s Light up Lancaster.

Flights of Fancy will be held at Lancaster Library and will feature workshops, exhibits and interactive experiences organised by the University.

Families are invited to witness the sounds and sights of the skies as part of the two-day citywide festival of light, art and fireworks on the 1^st and 2^nd of November.

Professor Dame Sue Black, Pro-Vice Chancellor for Engagement at Lancaster University, said: “We are delighted to be taking part in Light up Lancaster for a second year. The festival is an exciting and unforgettable way to explore our city, and experience the rich artistic talent we have within the community.

“We can’t wait to bring our research to life as part of this celebration of Lancaster. Our academics will be in the Library exploring the rings of Saturn with virtual reality glasses, discovering coral reef ecosystems through Minecraft and witnessing Lancaster’s very own version of the Northern Lights. Please come and join them.

“Participating in the festival is just one of the ways in which we engage with our local community and we are very proud to be working with the Light up Lancaster team once again this year.”

Among the activities are Ring Life - a chance for families to experience what it would be like to live in a planetary ring through virtual reality goggles; and the opportunity for children to explore coral reefs through the Minecraft game.

The Aurora Room will present an immersive experience of lights and sounds, while visitors will be able to take an interactive quiz with ISS images and live footage as part of Light up the Earth – Reflecting on our Planet.

Visitors can also discover how air pollutants move around the globe through the atmosphere; and can not only watch Jupiter’s aurora phenomenon but also listen to it through a film.

Away from the library, Lancaster Arts is partnering with More Music to present Magic Islands in Space created by musician Ben McCabe, dancer Anni Tracy and digital artist David Boultbee, transforming the Storey Auditorium into a retro sci-fi landscape for very young children and their families. Magic Islands in Space is supported by Arts Council England and a short film will be created.

The Confucius Institute will also be contributing to the Museum of the Moon installation at the Priory Church.