Brian Aldiss heads top sci-fi writers booking into the National Space Centre

A host of leading science fiction writers are to do readings and talks at the National Space Centre in Leicester.

In a strong bill headlined by Brian Aldiss and Peter F. Hamilton, they'll be taking part in a February half-term festival at the venue.

Says spokeswoman Malika Andress: "From The First Men in the Moon to the Hitch-hikers' Guide To The Galaxy, science fiction has transported, tantalised and terrified us with visions of technologically advanced futures and far-flung worlds.

"In the era of Kindle, Twitter and Audible, the way we enjoy science-fiction might have changed, but the stories remain as compelling as ever.

"The National Space Centre will be celebrating the history; past, present and future of Science Fiction during February half-term with a jam-packed programme of special guests, fun activities and a special competition where you get to decide which is the 'Best Science Fiction Book of All Time!'

"Each day we will have science fiction authors presenting readings form their books and discussing the appeal of science fiction."

Authors booked to appear between February 9 and 24 so far include:

Brian Aldiss
Peter F. Hamilton
Kim Lakin-Smith
Ian Whates
Gareth Powell
Alex Keller
Steven Munzer
Steve Smallman
Alastair Reynolds
Benjamin Hendy
Ben Arronovitch
Bali Rai
Ian Sales
Chris Beckett
Philip Palmer
Jonathon L. Howard
Kim Curran
Adam Christopher
Steve Cole
Kit Cox

"We are going to be joined by some of the best authors, screenwriters and illustrators working in the UK today," says Malika. "This is obviously a very exciting event for the Centre to host.

"But more importantly, the authors represent children's, teen and adult science fiction, so there will be something for all our visitors to enjoy."

Visitors can also win tickets in advance by championing a book on the Centre's website - www.spacecentre.co.uk/spacefiction

The National Space Centre is the UK's largest visitor attraction and research facility dedicated to space. It opened to the public in June 2001 and has welcomed more than two million visitors, including over 450,000 school children.

The Millennium Commission landmark project for the East Midlands, the Space Centre was co-founded by The University of Leicester and Leicester City Council. Its other founding partners are BT and East Midlands Development Agency.