The Farnborough Centrifuge played a key role in aviation medicine research during its 64 year life (1955 - 2019). This is an opportunity to see this unique and impressive example of 1950's British engineering (Grade II listed).
Opened in May 1955, the centrifuge was used to gain a better understanding of how 'G' affects the human body and to develop the countermeasures required to equip RAF front-line fast jet pilots with essential life-support systems. The visitor will be able to see the man-carrying centrifuge capable of 30 revolutions per minute (equivalent to 9G) for manned experiments plus, to a limited extent, other parts, including the 'art deco' style staircase (unusual feature for a 1950s Government building) along with a look into the Plant Machinery Room.
The Centrifuge is the recent recipient of an Engineering Heritage Award from the IMechE.
With the agreement of the owners, Raintree Developments Ltd, The Farnborough Air Sciences Trust will be running a series of tours of this wonderful facility. Tours must be pre-booked and will last approximately one hour. Over 16's only.
Event Times
Saturday 7 September: Tours at 11:00am, 1:00pm and 3:00pm
Friday 13 September: Tours at 11:00am, 1:00pm and 3:00pm
Booking Information
Pre-booking: Required.
Booking opens: 15th July
Booking closes: 6th September for the tours on 7th September and 12th September for the 13th September tours.
Book via the below link, or by emailing info@farnboroughcentrifuge.org.uk
Address & Directions
1 Centrifuge Way, Farnborough, Hampshire, GU14 6GF.
Additional Information
Max 12 people per session/tour. 1 hour.
Due to limited on-site parking it is essential that all visits are pre-booked.
Note - booking closes at 1700 on 6th September for the 7th September tour and 1700 on 12th September for the 13th September tour.
Visitors will only be able to see part of the site - with the kind agreement of the owners, Raintree Developments Ltd, the Farnborough Air Sciences Trust (FAST) organises longer and more detailed visits for groups for which there is a a charge to include a souvenir booklet. Details will be available when you visit on Heritage Open Day.
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Farnborough Centrifuge
Header image: Farnborough Centrifuge FAST Museum_credit Former RAF Institute of Aviation Medicine Man