From cosmodrome to aquarium: Far Eastern landmarks will be showcased at the National Centre RUSSIA

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A large-scale new project, "Journey Across Russia," will launch at the National Centre RUSSIA on March 1. The exposition will feature all federal districts. In locations dedicated to the Far East, visitors will be able to see the region's major natural attractions and learn about the culture of the indigenous peoples of Chukotka. Guests will also be introduced to key economic sites, such as the Vostochny Cosmodrome, Far Eastern Federal University (FEFU), and the Primorsky Aquarium.

The Primorsky Aquarium, located on Russky Island, is the largest in the country. It houses over 500 species of fish and marine animals, as well as jellyfish, starfish, octopuses, and other marine invertebrates. It also features one of the world's longest underwater tunnels, stretching 70 meters and home to more than 60 species of fish — around a thousand specimens in total. Additionally, the Primorsky Aquarium serves as a scientific and educational complex under the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation.

Another featured landmark is the Far Eastern Federal University (FEFU), one of Russia’s top universities. FEFU participates in international scientific projects and supports the development of innovative ventures and startups. Additionally, the university, located on Russky Island, is known for its distinctive architectural design. Its complex of buildings serves as a multifunctional space capable of hosting both business and cultural events, including the APEC summit. 

One of the main symbols of the Primorye region and the entire Far Eastern Federal District is the famous Vladivostok bridges — the Golden Bridge and, most notably, the Russky Bridge. The latter, constructed in just 43 months, set a record for the fastest completion of a bridge of this scale. When it opened in 2012, its main span was the longest among all cable-stayed bridges worldwide. Interestingly, the bridge is featured on the 2,000-ruble banknote. 

Vostochny Cosmodrome is the first spaceport built in Russia after the dissolution of the Soviet Union. Its location was chosen strategically due to its geographic advantages. Proximity to the equator allows for more fuel-efficient launches and enables rockets to be sent in various directions. The cosmodrome was inaugurated nearly a decade ago, in 2016, with the successful launch of a Soyuz-2.1a rocket. Today, it is open to tourists, who can explore its unique space infrastructure and, on occasion, witness a rocket launch.

At the "Journey Across Russia" exposition, visitors to the Vostochny Cosmodrome zone will have the opportunity to step inside a cosmonaut’s spacesuit through a special photo booth experience.