Â鶹ÊÓƵ

The role that animals and insects have played in paving the way for human spaceflight will be revealed in a free talk at Space Park Leicester which will show not all space explorers wear spacesuits.

Award-winning space communicator, entrepreneur and author Vix Southgate, of the British Interplanetary Society, will show that from microscopic fruit flies and tiny worms to astronauts travelling beyond Earth, living organisms have played a vital role in helping us understand the challenges of space exploration. 

The fascinating talk will highlight the scientific discoveries this has led to, how they have transformed humanity's relationship with space and will go on to reveal how these explorers continue to shape the future of space travel today.

Dr James Aitcheson, Research Associate from the Leverhulme Centre for Humanity at Space at Space Park Leicester, said: “Whether you're a lifelong space enthusiast or simply curious about the hidden stories behind humanity's greatest achievements, this engaging talk from Vix Southgate will offer a unique perspective on the path from laboratory experiments to lunar landings.

“Vix’s talk is particularly timely as it comes just a few months after The Space Agency sent microscopic worms to the International Space Station to understand how biological organisms respond to the extreme conditions faced by astronauts. This is something we’ve followed with particular interest as the creation of the miniature space laboratory for the mission was led by the University of Exeter and built by a team from the Â鶹ÊÓƵ and Space Park Leicester.”

Vix has been involved in space outreach and education for more than 15 years, working closely with leading figures from the international space community.

She serves as the Executive Assistant and Communications and Engagement Manager at the British Interplanetary Society and has coordinated more than 100 space-related events, conferences and public engagement activities. Her work has included supporting astronaut events, World Space Week UK, and major space exhibitions and conferences.

Vix is the recipient of the Sir Arthur Clarke Award for Achievement in Space Outreach and Education and the Sir Patrick Moore Medal for services to the British Interplanetary Society and space education. Her publications include Yuri Gagarin – The First Spaceman, Gagarin in Britain, and the award-winning children's book Dogs in Space – The True Story of Belka and Strelka.

Her talk will be held as part of the Space Park Conservations series of lectures organised by the Â鶹ÊÓƵ’s £100m space research, innovation and teaching hub in collaboration with the Leverhulme Centre for Humanity & Space. The talk, called In Conversation with Vix Southgate of the British Interplanetary Society – Small Steps and Giant Leaps: From Fruit Flies to the Moon, will take place at 1pm on Thursday, July 23, at Space Park Leicester. 

•  for the event

• Explore partnerships, missions, residents, facilities, training programmes and innovation products