AN ASTROPHYSICIST is coming to Swindon to inspire people young and old about her world-renowned research into the sun.

Dr Helen Mason OBE from Cambridge University will give the free public lecture, which is suitable for all ages, on the the mysteries of our closest star.

The talk will give insights into her work with the Solar Heliospheric Observatory (SOHO), a joint European Space Agency and Nasa project, carrying out observations into solar activity, such as sun spots and solar flares and the impact they can have on the earth’s climate.

The lecture has been organised by the Swindon-based Science and Technology Facilities Council, which is due to hold a series of talks to encourage greater interest in science and technology to drive innovation for the future.

Derek Gillespie, STFC’s head of skills and engagement, said: “STFC, as part of UK Research and Innovation, is one of the leading funders of science and technology research in the UK. We’re all passionate about the value of science as part of our society, and excited by the process of scientific discovery.

“These free events in Swindon are part of our wider public engagement activities that give everyone the chance to ask their own questions about research, and to meet the people who do that work all across the country.”

Amanda Spanswick, faculty manager of maths, English, languages and science at New College, said: “We are very lucky to have someone of the calibre of Dr Helen Mason here to speak on such a fascinating topic. We have all heard about solar flares and sunspots without knowing very much about their significance. Preparing students for careers in science and other STEM areas is a real focus nationally and in Swindon.

“It would be wonderful if listening to this talk encourages our young people to study science and aspire to a career in a STEM subject.”

The lecture will also discuss the launch of NASA’s Parker Solar Probe in August, and the European Space Agency’s own solar orbiter, which is due to launch in 2020.

The next lecture, taking place in December, will invite Dr Phil Manning, professor of natural history from the University of Manchester, who will give a talk on how new technology is shedding light on the extinction of the dinosaurs. The venue will be announced shortly.

Bringing the Sun to Swindon is taking place on October 23 from 7 -8pm at New College Swindon, on New College Drive. Anyone interested needs to register through the eventbrite page.