The annual European Lunar Symposium (ELS), hosted by the Open University (OU) in Dumfries and Galloway, will take place from June 16 to 21 at The Crichton. Some of the world’s most prominent lunar scientists will attend the event – which is landing in Scotland for the first time – discussing the latest findings from their research in lunar exploration. READ MORE: Scottish cancer support charity announces sudden closure after 40 years High-profile speakers will include representatives from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), the European Space Agency (ESA), the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) and the UK Space Agency (UKSA).
The event will also include a schools’ programme and public talks, aimed at inspiring the people of Dumfries and Galloway and leaving behind a new lunar legacy for the region. The region already has a strong association with Neil Armstrong, the first man to walk on the moon, as it is the seat of Clan Armstrong and is where Armstrong spoke at Langholm Town Hall in 1972. Moreover, the region is sparsely populated and therefore hardly light polluted, and has one of Europe ’s darkest skies, making it ideal for stargazing.
Galloway Forest Park was designated Britain's first “Dark Sky Park” in 2009 by the International Dark Sky Association, recognising its special status. Professor Mahesh Anand (below), OU Professor of Planetary Science and Exploration, has co-chaired the symposium held at various locations across Eur.