A Beer, A Bap and A Boffin:

Secrets and Spies in Scottish Literature

A discussion with Professor Penny Fielding FRSE

An astrophysicist’s guide to the Universe: What we know (and don’t know) about space

Space is a vast realm filled with celestial wonders. From the Moon, the planets of our Solar System, to billions of stars, galaxies and mysterious black holes, the Universe is home to phenomena that continue to surprise scientists with every new discovery.
Although we’ve learned an extraordinary amount about the cosmos, we’ve only explored a tiny fraction of what’s out there.

Join astrophysicist Dr Anne-Marie Weijmans as she takes us on a journey through the Universe and the remarkable space objects within it. Together, we’ll explore questions like: Was there ever life on Mars? Why is Pluto no longer a planet? And what are the oldest objects in the Universe?

Presented in collaboration with The Royal Society of Edinburgh.

The Royal Society of Edinburgh recognises, supports, and mobilises expertise from across academia, business, and public service for the benefit of Scotland and the wider world. As Scotland’s National Academy, we use the combined knowledge of our 1,800-strong Fellowship to provide independent expert advice to policymakers and inspire the next generation of innovative thinkers.

Dr Anne-Marie Weijmans, School of Physics and Astronomy, University of St. Andrews
Anne-Marie is a Reader in Astrophysics at the University of St Andrews. Her research focuses on the structure and evolution of galaxies. Anne-Marie is the Data Products Manager for the fifth generation of Sloan Digital Sky Surveys, where she is responsible for public data releases.
Anne-Marie leads Shine, an interdisciplinary public engagement program that explores light and its use in astronomical research through science, art and music. Anne-Marie strongly believes that science is for everyone and can be approached from many different angles; she often gives interactive talks and workshops to children, which include both science and art. She currently is exploring including other disciplines in her workshop, such as history, folklore and language.