Growing Worlds

Learn about the importance of science outreach as hosts Jeni and Lorenzo chat with Dr. Alex Thompson, a Postdoc at UCL’s department of physics and astronomy. Alex is soon moving to INAF Astronomical Observatory of Palermo and enlightens us of her contribution to ORBYTS, a programme that connects school students to real astrophysics research. Alex shares her career story, from her undergraduate degree to where she is today, showcasing her passion for outreach and shedding light on the found potential of school children apparent through outreach projects such as ORBYTS. Listen in as we are reminded that science is a collaborative effort, and the scientific community is home to all.

Do you want to get involved in real exoplanet research? Listen as hosts Jeni and Lorenzo are joined with Anastasia Kokori, a PhD candidate in Exoplanetary Science at University College London. Anastasia is the coordinator of ExoClock and ExoClock Unlocked, an international effort that brings together professional astronomers, students, and amateur observers to monitor exoplanet transits and add to the development of exoplanet research. Anastasia tells her story, from a teacher in primary education to the exoplanet expert she is today and shares her incredible passion for science communication. She is an advocate for communicating science in a way that is accessible to all and ensures growth of the scientific community. Listen to hear more about the exciting work of Anastasia and ExoClock and how you can make significant contributions to exoplanet understanding.

Dr Raissa Estrela from NASA's JPL explains how exoplanet observations reveal clues to Earth’s past and perfect balance. Your hosts, Jeni and Lorenzo, chat with Raissa about exoplanet spectra, through which scientists can decode the fingerprints of distant atmospheres, revealing chemical compositions, evolutionary stages, and even parallels to early Earth. These comparisons act as the perfect ‘textbook’ for understanding how planets form, change, and sustain life. Ultimately, Raissa’s message is clear: by studying other worlds, we learn the value and fragility of our own.