Astro Assemble brings Marvel superheroes into UK science classrooms

Fahad Redha

October 23, 2026
3 min read

Astro Assemble brings Marvel superheroes into UK science classrooms

Royal Observatory Greenwich and Disney launch a free space science resource for Key Stage 2 and 3 pupils, following a pilot that improved students’ confidence and interest in science. UK schools can now access a free interactive space science resource that uses Marvel superheroes to engage young people with science, following the national launch of Astro Assemble by Royal Observatory Greenwich and Disney.

Designed for Key Stage 2 and 3 pupils, Astro Assemble uses team-based challenges inspired by characters including Captain Marvel, Iron Man, and Thor. Developed with 1UP Studios, the resource combines space science with problem-solving, collaboration, and critical thinking, offering teachers an alternative way to introduce scientific concepts in the classroom.

The programme has been co-designed with teachers and tested with pupils, with the aim of making science more accessible to children who may struggle to connect with the subject. It is free to access and designed to support national curriculum objectives, giving schools a way to bring familiar fictional characters into lessons about the real science of space.

The nationwide rollout follows a pilot involving 350 pupils across eight schools last year. Results reported by the programme showed a 20% increase in students’ confidence when discussing space, while pupils said they were 13% more likely to consider a career in science after taking part.

Teachers also reported a 29% increase in their confidence teaching space science. Nine in ten said they would use the Marvel Universe to teach the subject again, suggesting the approach could offer a practical addition to existing classroom resources.

Deborah Armstrong, Disney Advertising EMEA’s senior vice-president and UK and Ireland country manager, said the project aimed to use storytelling to encourage curiosity and inspire young people to explore the world around them.

Paddy Rodgers, director of Royal Museums Greenwich, said the partnership supported the organisation’s mission to expand public understanding of astronomy through engaging experiences. He added that the resource was intended to encourage participation in science learning and introduce pupils to essential STEM concepts.

Astro Assemble is available through the Royal Museums Greenwich website, allowing schools across the UK to access the resource without charge. Its success will depend on how effectively teachers can use the interactive challenges to connect superhero-inspired activities with scientific understanding.

By combining popular culture with curriculum-based learning, the project aims to give more pupils the confidence to explore space science and consider future opportunities in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

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About Author

Fahad Redha

Fahad is the Content Editor at EyeOnLondon, overseeing the publication’s editorial output across news, culture, and lifestyle. With a background in journalism from the University of the Creative Arts, he brings a broad range of experience from local London reporting in Kensington & Chelsea, where he held roles including motoring, events, and health editor. At EyeOnLondon, Fahad plays a central role in shaping content and maintaining editorial standards. His work spans everything from daily news to feature coverage, with a particular strength in motoring and events. He also incorporates photography into his reporting, adding a visual layer to many of his stories. Fahad joined EyeOnLondon in February 2021.