PRIMARY school pupils got their hands-on rare samples of moon rocks and meteorites as part of a series of science lessons.

The youngsters at Eldene Primary School were given the opportunity to examine the specimens during a week-long interactive astronomy experience.

Teacher, Daniel Adams said: “Classes that have seen the meteorites have been very excited and amazed that they can see and handle such rare and special objects.

“We have loaned the samples from the Science and Technology Facilities Council.

“We have been doing a topic on space this term. We looked at the planets in our solar system and found out some facts about each planet.

“Following that we then looked at important historical figures to do with space and focused on Neil Armstrong and first lunar landing.”

The council provides packs of rocks and meteorites to inspire young people to get more involved in science.

The pack given to the school included a 1.2 billion-year-old piece of Mars rock, a 4.3 billion-year-old nickel meteorite, moon rocks and more.

Lunar samples were collected in the late 1960s and early 1970s during some of NASA’s first manned space missions to the moon. During these missions, astronomers brought back 382kg of materials, of which small quantities are used to develop educational packs like the one borrowed by Eldene school.

They have recently updated their packs to provide more samples and science tools. These packs contains new web-based resources and online support videos for all age groups.

Samples are offered free of charge to schools and scientific organisations by the organisation.

Executive chairman, Mark Thomson, said: “We are thrilled to be able to offer this unique opportunity to young people.

"It is not often they will be able to see close-up, and actually touch, such important fragments of science history.

He explained: “Samples like these are vital in teaching us more about our solar system, allowing us to turning theories into fact.

"We hope this experience will encourage the students to take up a career in science.”

For further information, including the application form to borrow rocks and meteorites visit: stfc.ukri.org/public-engagement/activities-for-schools/borrow-the-moon/apply/