TRAM passengers have been transported to another world during this week's Science in the City Festival.

Customers travelling on specially branded ‘Astrotrams’ have been able to take a tour of the universe and gaze up at the night sky.

The trams' ceilings have been filled with astronomy facts and interactive triggers, with commuters who download the free SciMan app able to play augmented reality videos.

Passengers on Metrolink stops have also been treated to intergalactic facts from Professor Brian Cox.

Peter Cushing, Metrolink Director for Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM), said: “We’re delighted to bring these Astrotrams on board the network to help bring science to life for our customers during the exciting City of Science Festival.

“With free WiFi onboard all trams, people can download the SciMan app for free and learn about science on their journey, while passengers on Metrolink stops will be treated to intergalactic facts from none other than Professor Brian Cox.

“Anyone can join in by following #ASTROTRAM on social media. I look forward to seeing people’s videos of science buskers on trams and at city centre stops.”

The festival, which runs until Friday, is a collaboration between TfGM, the School of Physics and Astronomy at The University of Manchester, the University of Salford, and the European City of Science programme.

Dr Annie Keane, Director of the European City of Science Programme said: “The partnership between the universities and Transport for Greater Manchester gives a unique addition to the Science in the City festival programme.

“We hope people taking a tram will be entertained and educated as they travel on a journey through the Milky Way, unlocking the secrets of the Universe on this very special app.”

For more details of the Science in the City Festival programme, visit manchestersciencecity.com/science-in-the-city-festival or follow @sciencecity2016 on Twitter.