Welcome to the dawn of the space age: yep, moon fever came to Australia too and is retold in this fascinating exhibition drawn from the National Archives. Focusing on the period from the 1950s to the 1970s, take one small step for mankind back into our recent past and explore research, architecture, design and television, all designed to illuminate Australia’s role in the space race. From mid-century fashion and unidentified flying objects, to early satellites, the moon landing and the curious tale of Mr Squiggle, there’s something for everyone, whether your interest is cutting-edge technology or exploring the ever-fascinating topic of space’s impact on popular culture.

Supported by the State Library Of South Australia, the Australian Government’s National Collecting Institutions Touring and Outreach Program, and Visions Of Australia, the exhibition tells a diverse range of stories (with a fascinating schools’ program running alongside). As original curator Catriona Donnelly explains, the space race had a fascinating impact on Australian culture. ‘New technologies were developed, inspiring people of all ages to explore their own ideas and aspirations for the future. What occurred was an explosion of creative responses from Australian scientists, designers, architects, television producers, community groups and children alike.’ Equally, if you’re just there for the pop-art-space-inspired fashion, that’s groovy too. Cosmic, in fact.

Out Of This World: Australia In The Space Age, State Library Of South Australia, Adelaide, Kaurna Country, Friday 4 July–Sunday 5 October.