Stellatrix with Astronomer Catherine Walsh TALK

Dr Catherine Walsh will give a talk followed by a Q&A with the audience.

Dr Catherine Walsh is an Associate Professor in the School of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Leeds. Catherine leads a team of researchers who study the formation of stars and planets, with a focus on how chemistry in space shapes new solar systems. Whilst space may appear mostly empty to our eyes, in between the stars there exist large clouds of gas and dust within which a rich and exotic chemistry creates molecules that may be important for kick-starting life on rocky planets. In this talk, Catherine will talk us through the chemical origins of life, from the emergence of the universe to the present day.

Stellatrix comprises a digital immersive environment in which sound synthesis is created from the light of stars. Radiophonic pieces explore possible and imagined connections between the mezzo scale, in which the experience of place takes place, and the micro-macro scales involved in stellar evolution.

Guest speakers from the Huddersfield Astronomy Society, the Astrophysics Research Group of the University of Leeds, and the Universidad de los Andes in Colombia present concise talks, suited to curious and non-expert visitors.

Topics include stellar observation, state-of-the-art research on star formation and evolved stars, and stellar spectroscopy. Each of these scientific presentations will be paired with one of the sound and visual pieces in the exhibition; these intersecting pairs along with visitors’ inquiries will be shaping the Stellatrix m*e*s*h* during the exhibition.

Accessibility information

This exhibition is in the ground floor space at AME and has step-free access, the closest accessible bathroom is in Queensgate Market or Huddersfield Library.