The science, sounds and spirit of India at Science Museum Lates

A celebration of India’s contribution to science, technology and mathematics at November’s Science Museum Lates. Illuminating India is a season of exhibitions and events marking the 70th anniversary of Indian independence.

Go on a journey through the science and history of the subcontinent with tours of 5000 Years of Science and Innovation led by exhibition curator Matt Kimberley, hear from Moumita Dutta of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and learn how to spin bowl from legendary cricketer Monty Panesar.

All this and much more, including a guided tour of our object conservation lab, the chance to create your own Kolam or Rangoli pattern and our famous intergalactic silent disco – this month with guest DJ Wondergupta. Plus, you’ll be able to explore the two free special exhibitions in our Illuminating India season, 5000 Years of Science and Innovation and Photography 1857-2017.

India in Space: Moumita Dutta in Conversation, IMAX

Project Manager for ISRO’s famed Mangalyaan Mars Orbiter Mission, Moumita Dutta joins us in person for a conversation with Sky at Night presenter Maggie Aderin-Pocock MBE to discuss exactly how ISRO sent a probe to Mars for less than it cost to make the film Gravity, to enlighten us on India’s upcoming lunar mission, and to discuss the importance of enabling more women to study and work in STEM.

Spin Bowling Masterclass with Monty Panesar

Let one of England’s finest spin bowlers and characters, Monty Panesar, guide you through the art and science of spin bowling and his experiences playing cricket around the world. Plus, you’ll have the chance to pose your own questions to Monty.

India’s Scientific Temper

In the 20th century science and technology became a linchpin of the country’s strategy for growth, through nuclear power, a space programme and new educational institutes. Science journalist Angela Saini explores this legacy, drawing from her bestselling book Geek Nation.

Artist Talk: Chila Burman, 5000 Years of Science and Innovation

Head to 5000 Years of Science and Innovation to meet artist Chila Kumari Burman who was commissioned by the Science Museum to create a series of artworks exploring the themes of the new exhibition.

Rajasthani Folk Dancing

Rajasthani folk dances were used to entertain Kings and Queens many years ago. Now you can experience the royal treatment and take part in this interactive performance by Garba Guru Kalpesh Zalavadiya and his team from K’z Dance Entertainment!

Sanskrit, India and the Birth of Linguistics

Matt Kimberley, curator of 5000 years of Science & Innovation explains how the modern scientific study of language owes its origins to the Sanskrit grammarians of ancient India, and how this is shaping human-computer interaction today.

Sheelika Ravishankar: TeamIndus Jedi Master

Sheelika Ravishankar formulates and executes strategies designed to make the TeamIndus GLXP mission one of the most inclusive space missions ever. Explore how TeamIndus is building a privately funded Spacecraft to land on the Moon.

Botown: The Soul of Bollywood

Go on a musical trip from Memphis to Mumbai with a multicultural London band who reboot Bollywood classics with a shot of late-sixties soul and funk.

India’s Exclusive Animals

Experience a talk on striking animals found exclusively in India, such as snow leopards, tigers and cobras. We’ll also get hands-on with real live critters including snakes, turtles and frogs, relatives of those animals that only live in India.

Good Luck Geometry

In India, ‘Kolam’ and ‘Rangoli’ describes a variety of geometric designs and patterns used to bring success and prosperity that are traditionally painted in joyful colours using rice powders and pastes. You will get to make your own paints with artist Amber Khokhar.

India-One: Solar Thermal Power

Find out about an amazing research and development project for decentralised clean power generation with thermal storage at Abu Road, Rajasthan. See elements of the work from the 1MW Solar Thermal Power Plant, learn about climate and consciousness, and how we can change the world.