New photo exhibition explores the universe

A new photographic exhibition, Explorers of the Universe, will be showcasing aspects of astronomy at the Royal Albert Hall from 24 September until 2 November 2009 to celebrate the International Year of Astronomy (IYA2009) and as part of the Royal Albert Hall’s reflect series.
 
Through interpretive and character portraits, photographer Max Alexander introduces us to astronomers such as Sir Bernard Lovell, founder of Jodrell Bank, one of the world’s most advanced radio astronomy telescopes, Professor Stephen Hawking and the discoverer of pulsars, Professor Jocelyn Bell-Burnell DBE. 

Supported by the Science and Technology Facilities Council and the Royal Astronomical Society, the exhibition includes pictures of leading UK astronomers, all of whom have made huge contributions to our understanding of the Universe, while other photographs capture the wonder of astronomy and the wide fascination astronomy inspires for both scientists and the public.

The exhibition can be viewed during one of four free open days throughout October or when attending Royal Albert Hall performances.

To complement the exhibition, there will be a talk ‘Explorers of the Solar System’ by Professor John Zarnecki on Sunday 4 October. A leading figure in astronomy, Professor Zarnecki will be giving a personal account of his experiences exploring the far reaches of the Solar System. This will be followed by a private view of the exhibition.

Max Alexander is a professional photographer and Fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society and has had a lifelong interest in astronomy.  He says, “Astronomy equally fascinates scientists and the public. Ever since Galileo first looked up into the sky with his telescope 400 years ago, finding out more about our universe has captured our collective imagination.”

Steve Owens, International Year of Astronomy 2009 UK Co-ordinator says, “We’re always looking for new and innovative ways of involving people in astronomy, and this exhibition is a great way to engage a very different audience at the Royal Albert Hall.”

The Explorers of the Universe exhibition can be viewed when attending performances at the Royal Albert Hall or during these free open days:

Saturday 3 October         10am-2pm
Saturday 10 October       10am-2pm
Wednesday 14 October   6pm-9pm
Saturday 24 October       10am-2pm

Tickets for the talk on 4 October are priced at £6.50 and include a glass of wine on arrival. Tickets are available from the Royal Albert Hall Box Office on 020 7589 8212 or online at www.royalalberthall.com