Space Rock

Timespan, Helmsdale

This small stone from the Strath of Kildonan is over 1000 million years old and started its long journey on the back of a glacier that deposited it in a gravel bed, at a site which would become home to the Highland Clearances. In 2018, it was taken into space by the first Scotsman in space and Helmsdale son, astronaut David Mackay. David returned the stone to Timespan at his welcome home parade, and it’s now one of our most treasured objects in our collection. 

Our space rock lets us explore the environmental and societal implications of human intervention in space, including the exploitation of the earth’s resources and the organisation of society beyond borders. We are also investigating the proposed Sutherland spaceport in the heart of Sutherland’s peat county, and thinking through questions at what cost and to whom, is (much needed) investment in the Highlands welcome. Want to know more? Then give this rock your vote!

Cast your vote here

Location: Timespan, Helmsdale

• KW8 6JA