Stargazing to full moon party: why Science Centre’s Celestial Nights makes for a romantic date

Ease into the evening with the Celestial Trail, which leads between Science Centre Singapore and Water Lily Pavilion at Japanese Garden. Along the way, follow illuminated discovery points that reveal the planets of our Solar System, learn about the moons of other planets and their origins, and discover which ones could be hiding oceans beneath their surfaces.

There are hands-on activities to try together, including lantern-making for a sweet chance to slow down and get creative. Complete the trail and you’ll also unlock a discount on a limited-edition Quby pin – a tiny memento of a rather out-of-the-ordinary date.

Next, head beneath the Omni-Theatre dome for Moon Legends: From Myth to Mission, running on September 25 and 26. In around 20 minutes, you'll journey from the myths and legends surrounding the moon – including the Jade Rabbit, Hou Yi and Chang’e – to the science and space missions that have helped us understand our celestial neighbour today. 

Shows run from 6pm through to 9.20pm, so you can slot one neatly into your evening. It's also a good excuse to cosy up next to your date beneath a giant dome, gazing up at lunar landscapes.

Once you’ve had the cinematic version of the moon, it’s time for the real thing. On September 25 and 26, head to The Observatory to explore a mini-exhibition of deep-sky objects and chat with astronomy explainers before peering through telescopes, weather permitting.

The main 16-inch reflecting telescope will be aimed at lunar craters and Saturn’s rings, weather permitting. Viewing sessions run every 15 minutes from 7.45pm to 10pm and are exclusive to Observatory Pass holders, with limited availability.

If you want your date night to end on the right note, save September 26 for MOONBEATS: AFTERDARK. For one night only, Science Centre Singapore transforms into a moonlit dance floor with a three-metre glowing moon suspended from the ceiling. Wander through the galleries as DJs play across three channels through custom LED headsets – pick your channel, switch when the mood strikes, and explore the space to your own soundtrack. Plus, every ticket includes a botanical, TCM-inspired non-alcoholic cocktail worth $15, perfect for a little refreshment between dances.

But before the indoor party begins, get there early for the MOONBEATS: Silent Disco Parade. From 7pm, you can put on your headset and join the procession from Science Centre Singapore towards the Japanese Garden, and then head back inside to start the party. Places are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.

The Celestial Nights experience, including the Celestial Trail and stargazing, is free. Tickets for Moon Legends: From Myth to Mission, which also include telescope viewing, the Celestial Trail and stargazing, cost $4. 

For the full after-dark party, MOONBEATS: AFTERDARK tickets include admission to the full moon party and one drink per ticket. Enjoy two tickets for $40 with the Limited Duo Bundle, while online tickets start from $25 and door tickets on September 26 are $35. Don’t get left in the dark – tickets for the September 25 and 26 programmes are available here. 

Find out more about Celestial Nights here.