On Friday, 25th October 2024, the Vectis Astronomical Society will host an exciting astronomy talk, “The Story of Pluto,” delivered by the renowned Martin Lunn, MBE, FRAS.
This event is open to all, whether you’re tuning in from the comfort of your home via Zoom or attending in person at Newchurch Pavilion, near Sandown, Isle of Wight. If you choose to join online, tickets can be obtained through Eventbrite, and a small suggested donation of £2.50 is appreciated from non-members.
The story behind Pluto
Pluto’s journey has been nothing short of fascinating. Initially discovered as a planet in 1930, Pluto’s status was demoted in 2006 to that of a dwarf planet. Despite this change, Pluto remains a source of intrigue for astronomers.
It wasn’t until 2015, when NASA’s New Horizons spacecraft flew past Pluto, that we gained more insight into its mysteries. This talk will dive into the challenges and discoveries that have surrounded Pluto’s classification and significance in the wider solar system.
Meet Martin Lunn: Your speaker for the evening
Martin Lunn, a proud Yorkshireman, is an accomplished figure in the field of astronomy. His academic background in astrophysics is particularly noteworthy, given that he studied whilst working as a guard on British Rail in the 1970s.
From 1989 until 2011, Martin served as the Curator of Astronomy at the Yorkshire Museum, where his passion for education earned him an MBE in 1998. He continues to share his knowledge through radio, public talks, and written features, making him a highly engaging and experienced speaker.
A chance to connect with the Cosmos
The Vectis Astronomical Society holds talks on the fourth Friday of most months, welcoming both members and non-members. Their events, like this one, provide an opportunity for attendees to delve into captivating astronomical subjects, with plenty of time for questions afterward.
For those on the Isle of Wight, the live Zoom presentation will also be projected onto a large screen at Newchurch Pavilion, ensuring a shared experience for local attendees.
Don’t miss this chance to explore the rich history of Pluto with one of the UK’s most distinguished astronomers.
