LATEST NEWS

 2014/15

 

ASTRONOMY FM UNDER BRITISH SKIES

The Cosmological Distance Ladder
with
Dr Robert Smith of Sussex University
Sunday 18 January 2015 - 2000hrs UT

 

 To listen in follow the link:  http://astronomy.fm/tag/under-british-skies/

UCKFIELD 105FM Radio Show

1100hrs
Wednesday 4 February 2015

(click icon at left to listen in)

 

TOUR OF THE UNIVERSE

with media partner BBC Sky at Night Magazine

Due to the overwhelming success of this year's National Tour (see below) there will be another in 2015!

VECTIS ASTRONOMICAL SOCIETY
Presentation
Friday 27 February 2015

EAST SUSSEX ASTRONOMICAL SOCIETY
Presentation
Thursday 5 March 2015

PATRICK MOORE MEMORIAL LECTURE
I have been invited to give two presentations
at the school where Sir Patrick himself taught for 8 years
Holmewood House School
Tunbridge Wells
on
Friday 8 May 2015

TOUR OF THE UNIVERSE
will also form part of the
Solarsphere Festival
on
14 - 16 August 2015

THIS SITE IS ABOUT TO BE REPLACED 
BY A NEW LOOK PROFESSIONAL SITE ...

Watch this space!

 

ASTRONOMY FM

UNDER BRITISH SKIES

Sunday 17 August 2014

2000hrs BST

 

 

COMET 67P/CHURYUMOV-GERASIMENKO

and

the ESA and NASA ROSETTA MISSION

 

Comet 67P/C-G imaged on 7 August 2014 by the Rosetta spacecraft's OSIRIS narrow-angle camera when 65 miles away from the 2.5 mile wide nucleus.

 

 

I was extremely privileged to join Richie Jarvis and Paul Harper, the hosts of Astronomy FM Under British Skies, for a live radio show in which we discussed the thrilling ESA/NASA Rosetta Mission to Comet 67P/C-G.

 

Our special guests included: Dr Colin Snodgrass, Marie Curie post-doctoral Fellow at the Max Planck Institute and co-ordinator of the ground-based observations of professional observers.  He is also a specialist on the Rosetta OSIRIS camera team; Dr Claudia Alexander, a Rosetta Project Scientist at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) and Dr Padma Yanamandra-Fisher of the Space Science Institute and Rosetta co-ordinator for amateur observers.

 

Pre-records for this programme were also contributed by Dr Matt Taylor, ESA Rosetta Project Scientist, and Dr Joel Parker, a Director at the Southwest Research Institute, Project Manager/Science Team Member on several space missions, including LRO and New Horizons, and Deputy Principal Investigator for NASA's Rosetta ALICE instrument.

 

It was a fascinating broadcast and is now available as a podcast below:

 

Click here for the Astro FM UBS Rosetta podcast

 

Look out for more Astronomy FM Under British Skies radio shows as the exciting Rosetta spacecraft drops its lander onto Comet 67P/C-G's surface and continues its journey towards perihelion in August 2015.



TOUR OF THE UNIVERSE

 With media partner BBC Sky at Night Magazine
 

 

I have been invited to team up with rocket scientist Neil Phillipson and some of the UK's most renowned astronomers to co-present a show with a difference - TOUR OF THE UNIVERSE! - with media partner BBC Sky at Night Magazine.

 

Special guest include Dr Maggie Aderin-Pocock, space scientist, and Dr Chris Lintott, astronomer, both presenters of the BBC's Sky at Night television programme.

 

Also joining us will be Dr Rhodri Evans, Honorary Research Fellow of Cardiff University, Mark Thompson, astronomer, author and presenter of BBC's Stargazing Live and Will Gater, astronomer, presenter, author and journalist for the BBC Sky at Night magazine.

 

Neil says: "The show is a night like no other - we take our audience on a whistle-stop journey through space and time, sharing the incredible nature of the Universe in a humorous, passionate and inspiring way."

 

Stunning planetarium-style presentations provide the backdrop to an intimate and uniquely insightful look at the wonders of the cosmos, touching on frequently overlooked fundamentals and guiding the audience to a jaw-dropping appreciation of the night sky.  Alongside Neil and our special guests I intend to bring the images alive with an interactive, light-hearted and illuminating approach.

 

TOUR OF THE UNIVERSE launches at Dorking Halls on 4th October 2014 with nine other national theatre venues to follow, including Nottingham, Altrincham, Liverpool, Southport, Portsmouth, Cardiff, Bath and Peterborough.

 

Full details are available on the official TOUR OF THE UNIVERSE website (see below) as well as via national media, Facebook, Twitter and other social media sites!

Come along and join in the fun!

TOUR OF THE UNIVERSE: Official Website

UCKFIELD 105FM RADIO

MONTHLY RADIO INTERVIEW

Wednesday 2 July 2014

1030hrs

 

It's that time again!  Feel free to listen in to a recording of today's radio show where, with presenter Tony Williams, we share the delights of the summer Milky Way, the mighty Andromeda Galaxy and many other galaxies beyond my recollection - and much more besides!

 

The Andromeda Galaxy (M31)  Credit: Nik Szymanek

 

Simply click the Uckfield 105FM icon at left and follow the links.

Don't forget to join us next month at 1030hrs on Monday 4 August.



ENCOUNTERS 2014

 

 

Encounters is a North Lanarkshire wide cultural festival with an eclectic programme that has something for everyone.  A month long feast of activity that includes authors, films, drama, dance, music, visual art and more, offered up through events, workshops, exhibitions and initiatives across the North Lanarkshire area.

 

I have been invited to be a speaker at this year's Festival on Monday 6 October 2014.

 

The historic Airdrie Observatory

 

The event will take place in the historic library of Airdrie Observatory.

I feel honoured to have been asked and very much look forward to the evening.

More details will be provided when known.



UCKFIELD 105FM RADIO

Monday 2nd June 2014

1030hrs

 

Feel free to listen in to our monthly show where, with presenter Tony Williams, we tackle the topical issue of this month's summer solstice.

 

 

We also share tomorrow's rare triple transit of Jupiter's moons, an event next repeated in 2015 but then not again until 2032!  Noctilucent clouds and this month's planets also add to the mix, and a whole heap of fun besides! 

Simply click the Uckfield 105FM icon at left.

 

Don't forget to join us again at 1030hrs on Wednesday 2nd July 2014.

 

Keep looking up!

RADIO SHOW

UCKFIELD 105FM

Tuesday 13 May 2014

 

Feel free to listen in to yesterday's radio show where, with radio presenter, Tony Williams, we share the delights of the recent Illustris Galaxy Simulation, otherwise known as 'Burt' (!), the appearance of Comet 109/P LINEAR and a possible meteor shower, noctilucent clouds and this month's apparitions of Jupiter, Mars and Saturn. 

Simply click the Uckfield 105FM icon at left and follow the links.

 

 

Don't forget to tune in to next month's broadcast at 1030hrs on Monday 2 June 2014.

In the interim, keep looking up!

 

More exciting news about upcoming events will follow ...

 



UCKFIELD 105FM RADIO

Astronomy Interview

Friday 4 April 2014

Shooting Stars and Mars!

 

It's that time again!  Feel free to listen in to this month's radio show where, with radio presenter, Tony Williams, we share the secrets of April's Lyrids meteor shower, the delights of the planets Venus, Mars, Jupiter and Saturn ... and a few thoughts on the Big Bang.

 

 

Simply click the Uckfield 105 FM icon at left and follow the link.

 

Happy stargazing and join us again at 1030hrs on Tuesday 13 May.



Uckfield 105FM Radio

Astronomy Interview

Friday 7 March 2014

1030hrs

 

Feel free to join radio presenter, Tony Williams, and me, for our monthly astronomy show.  This time we share the wonders of Jupiter, currently perfectly placed for viewing in the night sky, the Moon's impending conjunction with the gas giant planet, Saturn, a close shave by asteroid DX110, the winter constellations, and much more besides ...

 

 Tune in by clicking the Uckfield 105FM Radio icon at left.

 

See you next month!

 



ASTRONOMY IN THE PUB

Saturday 22 February 2014

The Horns Lodge Inn

South Chailey

 

 

Yet again, this was a really fun evening, enhanced this year by the fact that we actually enjoyed clear skies too!  As a result, Richie Jarvis took a crowd outside The Horns Lodge Inn to witness the passing of the International Space Station, as well as sharing the stunning views of Jupiter and Orion against the darkest skies in Sussex.  A raft of telescopes were also set up and members of the public enjoyed some amazing views of the gas giant planet as well as the Great Orion Nebula.

 

 

To complement the practical viewing sessions, astronomy author and broadcaster, Ninian Boyle, joined Richie and me in offering astronomy presentations.  Ninian shared the perils of Near Earth Objects, Richie, the latest rover activities on Mars and me, a journey from a speck of cosmic dust to the observable Universe, and beyond!  The pub was packed for its entire length, and was at least three people deep along the bar.  Subsequent feedback has been amazing.

It truly was a fantastic night - a gathering of like-minded people who clearly loved the subject, and a gathering of those who had very little idea about the great 'out there' but were possessed of an enormous thirst to know!  I felt privileged to play a part.

A big thank you to Richie, as ever, for organising the event and an even bigger thank you to all the lovely people who came along and made it so enjoyable.  Here's to another one next year! 

 

And a few more photos ...

 

 

 

 





 

 

DON'T FORGET ...

 

ASTRONOMY IN THE PUB

organised by

The East Sussex Astronomical Society

The Star Inn, Pevensey

Saturday 5 April 2014

 

Hope to see you there.  More details to follow.

 



THE GREAT DEBATE

Astronomy vs Astrology

Uckfield 105FM Radio

Tuesday 25 February 2014

 

 

Well, this was an idea of radio presenter, Tony Williams, with whom I share my monthly broadcast on all things astronomical.  He teamed me up with Sharon, Uckfield 105FM's Astrologer, for what became a lively discussion about the stars and planets, agrarian beliefs and the mysticism of horoscopes.  Tony led us way back into the realms of ancient Babylonia, Egypt, China and Australia, and great fun was had by all. 

Don't take my word for it, click the link below and listen in!

The Great Debate on Uckfield 105 FM

 

From left to right: Sharon, Tony and Me

 



MONTHLY RADIO SHOW

Uckfield 105 FM

Friday 7 February 2014

 

Feel free to listen in to Friday's radio show where, with radio presenter Tony Williams, we share Supernova 2014J which exploded 'recently' - some 11 to 12 million years ago in 'nearby' irregular galaxy, M82 in Ursa Major - but which is currently visible in larger amateur telescopes.

 

Supernova 2014J (circled) in M82: (NASA/Swift)

 

We also share the delights of February's night sky:  mighty Jupiter, beautiful Venus and her conjunction with the Moon on 26 February, the occultation by the Moon of the star Lamba Geminorum on 11 February, and much more.

 

To tune in just click the Uckfield 105FM icon at left.

 

 

THE GREAT DEBATE

Astronomy vs Astrology

Tuesday 25 February 2014

at 1130 hrs

 

Join Tony Williams, Uckfield 105 FM's resident Astrologer, Sharon, and me, for a live debate, or 'battle' as Tony would say (!), where astronomy goes head to head with astrology.

 

 

After much negotiation, Tony has thrown down the gauntlet and Sharon and I have picked it up!  So please do join us for what promises to be lively discussion and much debate about these two fascinating subjects.  I can't wait!

 

UPCOMING ASTRONOMY EVENTS

 

Due to the recent wet and windy weather - why am I using the word 'recent', it feels as if it's been around forever (!) - a number of astronomy events in which I was due to be involved have been cancelled.  I will update with new info as and when it becomes available.  In the meantime, watch this space!

 

Keep looking up ... those skies will clear ... eventually!

 



Stargazing LIVE in the Pub

 

EVENT CANCELLED DUE TO WEATHER CONDITIONS
Re-scheduled to Saturday 5th April 2014
Details to follow.
 

The Star Inn, Pevensey, East Sussex

Saturday 8 February 2014

1400 - Midnight

Organised by the East Sussex Astronomical Society

 

The Star has a great southerly view with an array of telescopes for viewing the Sun and the night sky; all are welcome to come and view its wonders.

Observing will start at 2.00pm with the Sun, then early evening, the Moon, and, as it approaches dark, the ESAS will have laser guided tours of the constellations along with telescope viewing through a variety of provided scopes.

 

Talks will also take place throughout the afternoon and evening, of which I shall be one of the guest speakers.  If wet, still come along as we shall be presenting, whatever the weather!

 

Here's hoping for clear skies!
Follow link for full details and directions.

 

 

 

Horns Lodge Inn, South Street, South Chailey, BN8 4BD

Saturday 22 February 2014

1800 - Midnight

Organised by Richie Jarvis of South Common Observatory

 

South Chailey turns off the lights to view the night sky in one of the darkest corners of the country, with a full supporting cast of astronomers and telescopes to help out.

Following the success of last year's event, feel free to join us for an evening of viewing and presentations, including mine.  It was really great fun last year and I am sure it shall be again.

 

Again, let's hope for clear skies!
Follow link for full details and directions.

 

Hopefully see you there.

Uckfield 105FM Radio

 

Friday 10 January 2014

 

Feel free to listen in to this morning's show where, with radio presenter, Tony Williams, we share a journey into the realms of the Northern Lights and what can be seen in the January night sky.

 

Yours truly with radio presenter, Tony Williams

 

This local radio station is hugely popular with listeners, both young and old, numbering in the tens of thousands.  Uckfield 105FM is ranked third highest after BBC national radio and Heart FM.  Little wonder because everyone in the team is enthusiastic, energetic and works really hard to serve the local community.  They do a great job.  My monthly astronomy slot, since my initiation as Royle's Astronomer over two years ago, has gone from strength to strength. 

I feel I must thank Tony, Mike Skinner and Gary King for all their support, genuine interest and, above all, fun.  Astronomy is now well and truly on the map ... and I love being a part of their team.

To listen in click the Uckfield FM icon at left.

Happy listening and look out for those Northern Lights!

 

 

ASTRONOMY IN THE PUB EVENT

 

A note for the diary: on 22 February 2014 astro-imager, Richie Jarvis, will be hosting another 'Astronomy in the Pub' evening at the Horns Lodge Inn in South Chailey.  I have been invited along as a Guest Speaker.  Last year's event was really well attended and was terrific fun.  More details to follow, but hope to see you there!



BIBENDUM EVENT

Thursday 14 November 2013

 

 

This was such a fun evening!

After my presentation at the BBC's Sky at Night National Astronomy Festival 2013 at the Herstmonceux Science Centre and Observatory, I was approached by double BAFTA Award winning television presenter, Neil Buchanan, to give a private presentation to a small group of astronomy enthusiasts.  What a terrific night!  The Herstmonceux 'Space Cadets', as they are known, are a fabulous bunch of people who genuinely love astronomy and meet regularly to study, share their passion and enjoy the night sky.  I knew from Neil's intro that the evening would be informal which enabled me to share my earlier Winchester Planetarium lecture, 'The Wonder of the Universe' in a more relaxed, leisurely manner ... which seemed to hit all the right notes.  After a short break, we then naturally slipped into the second half which took the format of a question and answer session, followed by lively open discussion and debate which proved very diverse, interesting and always laced with copious laughter. 

It was just so lovely to be with fellow astronomy enthusiasts, who know and love their subject, in a venue that was equally warm and welcoming.  A really great night.  Thank you Neil.  Thank you Sarah Morgan for getting it organised and making me feel so welcome.  And thank you to everyone who turned up to help make this a genuinely unforgettable event.

 



UCKFIELD 105FM RADIO

Friday 8 November 2013

 

Feel free to tune in to my monthly radio show where I join presenter Tony Williams to discuss Comet ISON, the Andromeda Galaxy, the conjunction of Saturn and Mercury and the Winter constellations.  Also shared is my presentation at the INTECH Science Centre and Planetarium at Winchester where significant sums for Cancer Research UK were raised.

Don't forget my next appearance at BIBENDUM in Eastbourne

on Thursday 14 November at 7.30pm. 
See below for booking details.

 

 

Listen in by clicking the Uckfield 105FM icon at left.



ASTRONOMY PRESENTATION

The Wonder of the Universe

7.30pm

Thursday 14 November 2013

at the

Bibendum Bar and Bistro

Grove Road, Eastbourne, East Sussex

 

 

Entrance fee: £10.00

Seating limited. 

A one-hour presentation followed by discussion
about the 'bigger picture'.

If interested in coming along, please advise Sarah Morgan (sarah4glebe@hotmail.co.uk)
to ensure a seat is made available.

INTECH Science Centre and Planetarium

Winchester

Thursday 17th October 2013

 

INTECH Science Centre and Planetarium at Winchester

 

Though known as an author, speaker and broadcaster on astronomy, I have another life working for the British Horseracing Authority, and this astronomy presentation was instigated by a BHA Disciplinary Panel Steward.  Ordinarily our paths would cross at Ascot or Epsom Racecourse where discussions about astronomy were considered somewhat off the rails.

 

In my 'other life' at Ascot Racecourse. 

Photo credit: Matthew Webb

 

Not so this night, for the great and good of British horseracing diverted from the running rails and took a journey onto the cosmic racecourse, from the realms of the very small to the truly astronomically immense.  Following a champagne reception, the packed auditorium darkened and for an hour all was eerily quiet as we took our voyage.  I think it was shock!  But the feedback was amazing and the questions keep on coming ... but not in a planetarium environment ... on racecourses throughout the south of England!  How's that for getting off the rails? 

The purpose of the evening was to raise funds for Cancer Research UK and in this we exceeded the target.  Can't help but smile!



HERSTMONCEUX OBSERVATORY

ASTRONOMY FESTIVAL

Friday 6 - Sunday 8 September 2013

 

With the field in the foreground of these historical domes replete with tents and the neighbouring car park full, clearly word continues to spread about this great three-day national astronomy event sponsored by the BBC's Sky at Night.

I go every year, ostensibly to catch some great speakers and soak up the atmosphere but, particularly, to watch renowned astro-imager, Nik Szymanek, deliver his sell-out presentation.  With a fabulous projector and large screen he thrilled us all with his latest images captured with Ian King (of Ian King Imaging) using their remotely operated telescope in Nerpio, Spain.  Stunning, literally jaw-dropping stuff.

As always, there were amazing activities for all, young and old, and, with some stunning clear skies on the Friday and Saturday evenings, amateur telescopes were turned skyward to capture some incredible astronomical objects and views of the Milky Way.

 

 

 

On a personal note, I was invited to be a Guest Speaker on the Sunday, the title of my presentation, 'Basketballs and Beyond' seemingly hitting just the right note.  How fantastic to have a sell-out audience join me in the historic Dome B - dark, cosy and so atmospheric beneath the 36-inch Yapp reflector telescope.  We shared a journey from the tiny to the truly tremendous.  The feedback was amazing and, as always, it reaffirmed for me why I love the subject so much. 

 

Roll on my next private presentation at Winchester's Intech Planetarium to raise funds for Cancer Research UK.  Can't wait!





Uckfield 105FM Radio

Friday 6 September 2013

 

Feel free to tune in to my most recent monthly appearance with radio presenter, Tony Williams, where we discuss the emergence of Comet ISON, what's in the  night sky for September and my views on a one-way ticket to the red planet, Mars! 

Click the Uckfield 105FM icon at left.

 

A report on the Herstmonceux Astronomy Festival 2013 will follow.