Space in a Modern Society

Armagh Observatory and Armagh Natural History and Philosophical Society joint public lecture to celebrate
International Year of Astronomy 2009:

Rotunda Lecture Theatre, St. Patrick's Trian, Armagh
15:00 to 16:00, Saturday 14th March 2009

Professor David Southwood
Director of Science and Robotic Exploration,
European Space Agency,
Headquarters
Paris

Summary

With the start of the space age, both the universe and the Earth changed or - at least - mankind's perception of both dramatically changed. 50 years on we can wonder at the vast increase in our knowledge of the Earth, solar system, and the stars and galaxies that access to space has provided. Space did indeed give us our first capacity to look at our own planet in a truly global manner. It even allowed to manage things on a global scale. Who would have predicted in 1957 that now we would use space to navigate our cars? Not many. However, at the same time, how many back then would have been sure that by now we would have had a base on the Moon? Quite a few, no doubt. What then is space about: exploration, exploitation, inspiration, education, knowledge? And, why does a developed society need to care?

Tea and biscuits will be served after the lecture, where there will be an opportunity to ask questions.

This is a free public lecture open to all. Everyone is welcome. In order to obtain a ticket to reserve your place at the lecture, please contact Mrs Aileen McKee at the Armagh Observatory, College Hill, Armagh, BT61 9DG. Tel: 028-3752-2928, E-mail: ambn at sign

arm.ac.uk.