Hightex nssc 04

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National Space & Science Centre

Leicester, UK

Rocket Science

The rockets stand proud behind a transparent pneumatic membrane facade. Thirty-eight ETFE cushions offer a clear view of Sputnik & Co. built according to the design by Nicholas Grimshaw & Partners. The Rocket Tower with its transparent sheath was an architectural and astronomical challenge.The open-air ambiance called for a special design that stretched the outer limits of ETFE technology. Some of the largest cushions are more than three metres high and 20 metres long and curve along a radius of some ten metres. The north face cushions can be disassembled to provide a large opening to accommodate large new exhibition items.

  • Hightex nssc 05
  • Hightex nssc 02
  • Hightex nssc 01

Facts

  • Realization membrane structure

    Skyspan GmbH
  • Year

    2001
  • Client

    National Space Centre, Leicester, UK
  • City

    Leicester, UK
  • Location

    Europe
  • Roof area

    – m²
  • Facade area

    2000 m²
  • Contractor

  • Architect

    N. Grimshaw & Partners, London, UK
  • Engineering

    Ove Arup & Partners, UK

Used materials