THE space age will meet music and the arts when Bluedot festival returns to Jodrell Bank for 2017.

Bluedot was launched last year when Jean-Michel Jarre and Air performed in the shadow of the iconic Lovell Telescope and Brian Eno unveiled a new artwork designed specifically for the observatory.

There was even a show involving the band Spiritualized and 40,000 bees to highlight the plight of the honeybee while Aiden Byrne offered a 'Restaurant at the End of the Universe' experience.

The idea of the event is to celebrate scientific endeavour and combine it with a mind-expanding programme of arts and culture.

And after being nominated for six awards at the UK Festival Awards and two awards at the Association of Independent Festivals, Bluedot will be back from July 7 to 9.

Festival director Ben Robinson: "Last year’s Bluedot festival exceeded all expectations.

"A combination of the incredible location and the rich diversity of the musical line-up and the science, arts and culture content really set us apart from the pack.

"We are determined to raise the bar again and have some very exciting developments to announce in the coming months."

Revellers can expect a galaxy of talent from across the scientific, literary and arts communities with five arenas featuring space orchestras, talks, screenings, lectures, comedy, debates and hands-on activities and experiments.

Prof Tim O’Brien, astrophysicist and associate director of Jodrell Bank, said: "Bluedot is a spectacular way to spend a weekend with brilliant music, world-leading science, amazing art and the very best in food and drink.

"We're looking forward to welcoming everyone back here to Jodrell Bank in 2017. Please do come and join us."

A range of tickets are available now. The festival's line-up will be revealed in the coming months. For more information or tickets visit discoverthebluedot.com