Strathnairn Stargazing Group | The Science of Star Wars | Event 1

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The Science of Star Wars

  • Talk with Professor Martin Hendry (of Glasgow University)
  • (Weather permitting) Community-led stargazing opportunity / live observing with local astronomers Dr Andy McGregor & David Lumsden; [or learn about Strathnairn Stargazing Opportunities / Strathnairn Dark Skies and see a telescope]
  • Tea, coffee, hot chocolate (refreshments etc) are all included in ticket price.

Strathnairn Stargazing Group’s inaugural event to launch a winter of locally-led astronomy and community-based stargazing plus other Strathnairn Dark Skies engagement, events and opportunities

Overview

In this talk Professor Hendry explores the science behind Star Wars. Could we travel to distant galaxies or travel through wormholes?

For almost fifty years we have marvelled at the Star Wars universe. But how much real science is there on the big (or small) screen? Could we travel to other planets, crossing the vast distances between stars using shortcuts through hyperspace? What kinds of alien worlds might exist in our universe, and could they bear life forms like the creatures found in Star Wars? Could a Jedi Knight really fight with a lightsabre? Could the Death Star really blow up a planet? Join astrophysicist, black-hole hunter and life-long Star Wars fan Professor Martin Hendry on a journey to a galaxy far, far away!

Owing to the content recommended for age 12 and above. Children under 16 welcome if accompanied by an adult. Due to limited ticket availability, all children and adults will be required to purchase a ticket.

Due to the hall capacity- and to avoid disappointment- advance booking is essential via Eventbrite.

The Science of Star Wars by Professor Martin Hendry Tickets, Sun, Dec 14, 2025 at 7:00 PM | Eventbrite

 

If any tickets should remain unsold a close of ticket sales a small number may be available on the door. These would be issued on a first come first served basis until sold out.

Professor Martin Hendry is Vice President at the University of Glasgow and Vice President of The Royal Society Edinburgh. As former Head of the School of Astronomy and Physics he continues to be a passionate advocate for STEM education and science engagement with schools and public audiences. He is a senior member of the LIGO Scientific Collaboration, the global team of more than 1400 scientists which made the first-ever detection of gravitational waves – a discovery awarded the 2017 Nobel Prize for Physics. Also, is the author of more than 200 scientific articles.