THE mysteries of outer space will be explored with the help of Oxford University boffins with a day of activities and talks in Barton.

The university will host the event at Barton Neighbourhood Centre in Underhill Circus on Saturday.

Families will have the opportunity to make realistic model telescopes, watch demonstrations of the university's infra-red camera and get involved in an interactive session exploring how computer code is used in science.

A portable planetarium will also be on site to help visitors build their knowledge about space.

From midday until 5pm there will be stalls featuring games, information and demonstrations of real laboratory equipment.

Each stall will be staffed by Oxford University scientists and students and there will be short talks throughout the day.

Dr Ann Caughey from the university said: "This family fun day is about connecting scientists and the public through creative and engaging workshops and hands-on activity.

"It’s fun for all ages with a serious goal as well – getting local children interested in science by engaging with some of the space-themed programmes the university offers, and letting older students know about the employment opportunities available in the UK space industry."

The day is part of the Oxford for Oxford Project, a new initiative from the university's widening access and participation office.

It aims to connect schools, families and communities with the university's resources and to encourage students at Oxford schools to think about higher education as part of their future.