The latest addition to Scotland’s science centres opened in time to welcome Easter visitors as £2.5 million funding has been confirmed for the next year.

Minister for Science Alasdair Allan announced the funding as new figures show almost 645,000 people visited Satrosphere in Aberdeen, Dundee Science Centre, Glasgow Science Centre and Edinburgh’s Our Dynamic Earth in the last year – 0.5 per cent up on the previous year.

The new ‘Scotland’s Time Lords’ galleries – opening at Our Dynamic Earth for Easter – bring to life the impact our earth scientists have had on our understanding of the world, since the Scottish Enlightenment. Using Scottish Government funding, the displays are the biggest redevelopment undertaken by Our Dynamic Earth since it opened in 1999.

The science centre funding will also see Ice Station Antarctica – a major exhibition from the Natural History Museum – come to Dundee this summer. It will teach visitors about the challenges facing scientists working in sub-zero temperatures and the type of research being carried out in the frozen wilderness.

Dr Allan said:

“Our four science centres have been attracting increasing numbers over the last few years as more and more people recognise the exciting and informative wonderful days out they offer. A great deal of work has gone into bringing science to life for visitors of all ages, and I am delighted that it is having such an impact on a wider audience, with exciting new galleries and exhibits to enjoy this year.

“This funding package will allow each centre to invest in hands-on exhibits and activities, help fund school visits and also develop community programmes – either at the centres or at other venues.

“Scotland’s extensive scientific heritage is something that we can all be proud of, and while we also celebrate it through festivals and initiatives like the Higgs Prize for Physics, we can explore it every day at our four national science centres.”

All four centres are preparing for an exciting year with redevelopments, the opening of new galleries and major exhibitions that have not been seen outside of London.

John Law, Chief Executive of Satrosphere Science Centre:

“I am really delighted to be receiving some additional funding from the Scottish Government this year. This is really timely for us here at Satrosphere as we move forward with our ambitious plans to redevelop our centre and become Aberdeen Energy Science Centre in the next two years. The award is also a reward to the truly fabulous staff at Satrosphere who work so hard to bring exciting and stimulation Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths experience to the children of Aberdeen city and shire.”

Louise Smith, Chief Executive of Dundee Science Centre said:

“2014 is a very exciting year for us and our community. During our Energetic Easter show, visitors can explore how top athletes prepare for the challenges of a lifetime. How fast is the fastest human? What do a marathon and a mountain have in common? And what does a weightlifter eat for breakfast? Visitors can find out this Easter at Dundee Science Centre.

“In summer 2014 we will also be showing, for the first time outside London, ‘Ice Station Antarctica’ – a major exhibition from the Natural History Museum in London. Come and find out what it is like to live and work in the coldest, windiest and most remote place on earth.”

John Simpson, Chief Executive of Our Dynamic Earth, said:

“This Easter we have launched our biggest ever redevelopment, with three new galleries and a brand new beginning to the visitor experience. Our ability to make such investments would not be possible without Scottish Government support and we are incredibly grateful that this will continue. We look forward to a busy year ahead in this exciting new era for Our Dynamic Earth.”

Dr Stephen Breslin, Chief Executive of Glasgow Science Centre, said:

“This funding will help us in our mission to promote science in a fun, thought provoking way to learners of all ages. It also allows us to sustain our work with Scottish schools to help young people discover the pleasure and relevance in science and to realise the exciting opportunities a career in STEM can bring.

“We are excited about the year ahead – redeveloping areas of the Science Mall, enhancing our education programme, working with our partners from academia and industry, opening Glasgow Tower and taking part in Commonwealth Games activities across Scotland.”