It’s a big year for space. 2011 marks the 50th anniversary of human space flight. A new, more powerful rover is heading off to Mars. The US space shuttle should finally retire from service. Exciting times.

All this and a universe of other wonders will be celebrated at the Kensington Conference and Events Centre this weekend. The Astrofest Conference and Exhibition is aimed at anyone passionately interested in the wider cosmos (which should be just about everyone, but, sadly, isn’t), whether a space professional or an amateur enthusiast.

The programme includes talks on everything from planetary science to a biographical sketch of Sir Arthur Eddington. And it’s not all lectures. Comedian Helen Keen will be dishing out the chortles with her space-based routine. Film producer Chris Riley (who made the exceptional In The Shadow of the Moon) will talk about the forgotten films of Apollo. There’s also an inevitable appearance for the ubiquitous Brian Cox, although those sessions are already sold out.

The exhibition, meanwhile, will be heaven for heaven-watchers as manufacturers of stargazing instruments tout their wares alongside stalls from various universities, publishers, clubs, observatories and institutions.

Tickets are still available and can be purchased here.