Noordwijk Space Expo

Noordwijk space expo

Hostel backpackers staying at The Flying Pig Beach Hostel simply must pay a visit to Noordwijk Space Expo; Europe’s first major space exhibition and the technical home of the European Space Agency, ESA.

Noordwijk Space Expo is contained inside one large hanger, half of which is devoted to the European space agency, ESA, while the remainder of the exhibition concentrates on all the major global events that have helped shape the history of modern day space exploration.  All the major achievements and disasters are chronicled, right from the first Russian satellite fired into space to the NASA moon landings and the conception of the European space agency, ESA.  The exhibition also includes the simulated launch of an Ariane rocket, a life sized mock up of a NASA Lunar Lander, the Columbus shuttle, and the International Space Station.  

Set aside at least three hours for your visit to Noordwijk Space Expo, and make sure you stop by the ESA Café to swig strong coffee and devour large pieces of apple pie served at the astronaut’s dinning table. 

The European Space Agency, ESA, and the Noordwijk Space Expo exhibition are located on the edge of Noordwijk; only a short 5 minute bus journey from the front door of The Flying Pig Beach Hostel.  Noordwijk Space Expois a permanent exhibition, open between 10am and 5pm, Tuesday – Saturday.