Space group’s speaker

Astronomical event

Airdrie Astronomical Associat i o n w i l l wel come Mat j a z Vidmar as the guest speaker at their weekly gathering this Friday.

The Edinburgh- based PhD researcher will give a talk entitled “From Scotland to the Stars”, focusing on “new space, innovation and agility” and developments in the country’s space sector.

He will share findings from his studies on high- tech innovation in the industry, such as new product developments, networks and knowledge transfer.

Astronomical Association representative Aileen Malone said: “We have lots of young visitors to the observatory, and we tell them that they don’t need to go to NASA or even the European Space Agency to work in the space industry as there is so much innovation in Scotland – such as Clyde Space and Alba Orbital, both in Glasgow.

“We’ re e x c i t e d to welcome Mat jaz for his first presentation to the Association, and we’re looking forward to hearing about all the latest developments going on in space in Scotland.”

Matjaz recently received the prestigious emerging space leaders award from the International Astronautical Federation.

The university lecturer is currently researching science policy and business incubation, and is involved in international initiatives including serving as the deputy chief executive of the Astrosociology Research Institute.

The free talk takes place at New Wellwynd Parish Church in Airdrie at 7.30pm; under-18s can attend with an adult and all are welcome.