We have all heard the phrase ‘it’s not exactly rocket science’ and most people believe that being a rocket scientist is difficult and complex. However, the science behind building and launching rockets is easy to understand and even more importantly, enjoyable!
Through this talk I will bring the audience into the world of the rocket scientist, looking at the first explosive attempts to launch humans into space and answering questions such as:
- What is rocket fuel?
- How do we launch a rocket into space?
- How do humans live in space?
- Will humans ever reach other stars and planets?
With exciting demonstrations and easy explanations, by the end of the talk you too will be able to say that ‘I am a rocket scientist’.
About the speaker
Dr Simon Foster is the Outreach Officer for the Department of Physics at Imperial. His research investigates sunspots and the role they play in climate change.
Simon became obsessed with rockets (and explosives) as a child and dreamed of becoming an astronaut. Sadly that dream never came true, but he was lucky enough to go to university to study Physics with Space Science, becoming a qualified rocket scientist!
After his degree he continued his studies, undertaking a PhD in Solar-terrestrial Physics, specialising in solar variability and climate change. Simon has been able to combine his love of rockets and astronomy, using satellites and historical records to investigate how the Sun’s energy has changed over hundreds of years, at times causing ice ages, and currently helping us understand climate change and mankind’s role in it.
Simon competed in the 2009 FameLab competition, winning the London heat and coming 3rd in the national final, held at the Cheltenham Science Festival. Since the competition, Simon has spoken at various science and music festivals around the UK, as well as presenting TV and radio shows for Sky, the BBC and Channel 4.
Registration
This presentation is aimed at 11-16 year olds and is open to schools and the general public. Please register in advance by contacting l.hale@imperial.ac.uk
The lecture will be followed by a festive reception.