Challenges that satellites pose to astronomers to be examined in new talk
The impact that the growing number of satellites has on amateur astronomers who observe and photograph the night sky will be explored at Space Park Leicester
The University of Leicester’s £100m space research, innovation and teaching hub will host a talk on ‘Satellites, Astro-Photography and Observational Amateur Astronomy’ which will examine the growing industralisation of space, how satellites are reshaping experiences of the night sky and the environmental impact of orbital debris.
The talk will be given by Dr Jack Lampkin, a Senior Lecturer in Criminology at York St John University, whose research focuses on how outer space is socially understood particularly in relation to crime, regulation and environmental impacts beyond Earth.
Dr Lampkin said:
“The number of satellites in Earth orbit has increased significantly in recent years and is expected to grow rapidly in the coming decades, driven by the expansion of communications systems.
“While the broader impacts of these developments remain widely debated, their effects on ground-based amateur astronomy – particularly observational practice and astrophotography – have received comparatively little attention.”
Dr Lampkin’s talk will include the findings from research carried out with amateur astronomers in two internationally recognised dark sky areas in northern England – the Yorkshire Dales and the North York Moors National Park areas.
It will take place as part of a series of free talks at Space Park Leicester, called Space Park Conservations, and will be delivered in collaboration with the Leverhulme Centre for Humanity and Space.
Dr Scott Davidson, Development, Sustainability and Fairness Strand Lead of the Leverhulme Centre for Humanity and Space, said: “Whether you’re interested in space sustainability, astronomy, environmental change or the cultural impact of space technologies, this talk offers a thought-provoking perspective on one of the fastest-changing aspects of our relationship with space.”
The talk will be held at Space Park Leicester from 1pm to 2pm on Wednesday, July 29. For further information and to book a free place on the talk, visit https://tinyurl.com/2f645jsz
To explore Space Park Leicester partnerships, missions, residents, facilities, training programmes and innovation products, visit space-park.co.uk or to learn more about the University of Leicester visit le.ac.uk/.
Main image: Jack Lampkin talk banner
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