Refugees and asylum seekers are reaching for the stars through a North East astronomy project.

Kielder Observatory, based in Northumberland, has partnered with Newcastle’s West End Refugee Service (WERS) to deliver a new programme that brings space science to those who have arrived in the UK seeking sanctuary.

The project, titled Explore Your Universe: Valuing Inclusion, is part of a national scheme that aims to engage underrepresented communities with astronomy and STEM learning.

Asylum seeker Korey Bonett, standing, leads an activity for users of the West End Refugee Service (WERS (Image: Supplied)

It includes workshops and stargazing sessions focused on topics such as exoplanets, space exploration, and the power of telescopes to reveal the universe.

Korey Bonnett, 39, an asylum seeker who fled gun and gang violence in Trinidad and Tobago, said the project has given him a renewed sense of purpose.

Mr Bonnett, who has lived in Newcastle for four years, said: “This project with Kielder gives us a reason to live and it teaches some skills as well as it being fun to do.

“We get to visit Kielder and interact with the telescopes, which you would never be able to afford to do, and we have this amazing opportunity to be part of something you are proud of.”

Ellie Macdonald and Adam Shore of Kielder Observatory with asylum seeker Korey Bonnett, centre (Image: Supplied)

Mr Bonnett is unable to work until his asylum status is confirmed but volunteers with WERS, sits on its advisory panel, and enjoys art and photography.

The programme is funded by the Science Technology Facilities Council (STFC) and delivered nationally by the Association for Science and Discovery Centres (ASDC).

It builds on Kielder Observatory’s previous collaboration with WERS through the North East Astrophotography Academy, which highlighted the benefits of hands-on science activities for marginalised groups.

Emma Ross, community engagement co-ordinator at WERS, said the sessions offer stability and hope.

Ms Ross said: “The astronomers from Kielder are great.

“There’s a lot of instability for our clients, most people can’t work, and some aren’t able to attend college, so these projects can be transformative in helping them to build their confidence, meet new people and improve their skills.”

Adam Shore, astronomer and education lead at Kielder Observatory, said the project aims to spark curiosity and a sense of belonging.

Mr Shore said: “It’s been fantastic to hold these interactive sessions which are aimed at improving their scientific understanding and providing a sense of connection with their new community.

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“We want participants to feel confident taking part in science activities, able to contribute their own ideas and to see value in their experiences and perspectives.

“We also want to introduce them to further opportunities in science.”

The sessions have been co-designed with WERS and its clients to ensure they are accessible, relevant, and supportive.

The programme includes a visit to Kielder Observatory for a dark skies stargazing experience.