Public Lecture: The New Space Race

Neil Phillipson presents a lecture on the new space race. In recent years, we’ve seen a whole new race to space, powered by a potent combination of billionaire businessmen and flatter, leaner, cash-strapped space agencies. This time, ambitions far exceed those of our forebears – and incredible technology is coming together to make our dream a reality. Could we finally become a spacefaring civilisation?

After completing a Masters degree in Physics with Space Science & Systems at Canterbury, Neil has taken an entrepreneurial path – running a specialist software business for ten years before selling it to enter the world of astronomy full-time. He set up astronomy retailer Astronomia in Dorking, Surrey, before founding a business building astronomical observatories across the UK and internationally. Recent notable projects include a public observatory at Hunstanton in Norfolk, and a satellite ground station currently under construction for RAL Space at the Chilbolton Observatory.

On a personal level, Neil is a keen lunar and planetary observer, and enjoys both visual astronomy and astrophotography. Having personally trained over 1000 new astronomers to use their equipment, he is passionate about bringing new people into our marvellous hobby.

This lecture is open to Members, and to non-Members for a small fee. Please click here to reserve your place.