Stephen was born in Yorkshire and completed his undergraduate education at Durham University. He then completed his PhD at the University of Cambridge before taking a 3 year research position at the University of Oxford. Since 2013 Stephen has been faculty at the University of Sussex and is now a Reader in Astronomy and Public Engagement Fellow. His research mostly focuses on understanding the formation of the first stars and galaxies through both space-based observations and computer simulations.

Talk: Happy Birthday Hubble

The Hubble Space Telescope was launched into orbit almost 30 years ago. Thanks in part to its unique position above the Earth’s atmosphere and five manned servicing missions, it has maintained its position as one of the world’s premier observatories to this day. Over its 30 year career Hubble has had an unprecedented scientific and cultural impact; discoveries extending from the outer Solar System to the edge of the observable Universe have revolutionised our understanding of astronomy and cosmology while its spectacular images have inspired the wider public’s wonder.
Stephen will introduce Hubble and present some of its scientific highlights including its role in revealing the presence of the Dark Energy, to the imaging of planets outside our own solar system. He will also discuss Hubble’s upcoming successor, the Webb Telescope which is due to be launched in early 2021.