The 12th annual World Space Week (October 4-10) celebrates the achievements of space exploration, with this year’s theme being 50 Years Of Human Spaceflight.

Backed by the United Nations, and with more than 55 countries joining the festivities, we’ve rounded up a collection of stellar gadgetry which offers both educational and recreational value.

Big Build – Techno Gears Marble Mania Galaxy – £81.53 from www.amazon.co.uk

This space-themed set has more than 400 pieces for big and small kids alike to assemble a speedy and exciting marble run – one of the greatest ever created. Watch as the launcher sends the marble careering around the static planetary system cheered on by flashing lights and space sounds for extra atmosphere!

Look Out – Space Junk Ball Clock – £19.99 from www.menkind.co.uk

This clever clock showcases what Earth looks like from way up above and its surrounding stars and satellites. The magnetic moon drifts around the clock face as the hours pass without the need for conventional hands. It’s amazing to know that more than 13,000 satellites orbit Earth, and while only capturing a fraction of these, of course, this timepiece will look equally amazing hanging on the wall at work or home.

Atmospheric Appetites – Space Food – £5.99 each from www.firebox.com

Originally developed for the Apollo missions, these genuine pouches of Space Food have been frozen to -40C and then vacuum packed. Made by the same company that supplies NASA, the snacks include melt-in-the-mouth ice-cream flavours including Neapolitan, mint choc chip and ice-cream sandwich – a weirdly wonderful after-dinner treat, perhaps?

Alien Invasion – AppBlaster – £19.99 from www.apptoyz.com

Those who have an iPhone/iPod and want some fun, read on. A new genre of toy is among us. Just download the app, place your iPhone or iPod in the gun cradle and play in augmented reality blasting the alien invaders in the space around you. There is little that is more fun to be found on planet Earth!

Night Sky – Star Theatre – £119.99 from www.firebox.com

Using the same lenses that you’d find in a commercial planetarium, this projection unit is set to dazzle. Ultra-bright LED technology allows this unit to beam 10,000 stars onto your ceiling in incredible detail. It includes two discs to display both stars and constellations, and mimics celestial movement in both northern and southern hemispheres – prepare to be amazed.

Room Mate – Walltastic Space City – £35 from www.kidsrooms.co.uk

This is an out-of-this-world display that is likely to excite any kid. Place the 10ft x 8ft scene on youngsters’ walls and without doubt, it’ll make an impression. The design comes in 12 easy-to-put-up pieces that are guaranteed to transform a room at a fraction of redecorating costs.