FUTURES – Our World From Space

While FUTURES weekend might have finished, its impact is still ongoing. University of Exeter researchers have been working in conjunction with Exeter Science Centre to expand upon their ‘Our World From Space’ programme. 

This programme is working with schools and communities around the region to deliver hands-on workshops to people of all ages. Each workshop uses the lens of satellite technology and observations to connect people with different aspects of the Earth’s health in a fun and dynamic way.

Held in July 2024, the first event in this series worked with over 100 children in years 7 and 8, to explore the applications of satellites. Academics like University of Exeter’s Dr Steven Palmer were on hand to help students work through activities related to their research – in Steven’s case, using satellite radar measurements to investigate the flow of Arctic glaciers. Staff on the day reported that “the students benefitted massively from a variety of activities” and “were able to see real life applications of science that we do not cover in the curriculum”. 

The success of this activity has bolstered enthusiasm for the programme, and researchers from across the Exeter area are planning to collaborate again on similar events. In 2025, the team will be expanding their reach to secondary schools around the city, offering workshops that connect local communities to researchers. This will help shed light on global issues, and the role we can all play in mitigating them.

To get involved in FUTURES 2025, email us at per@exeter.ac.uk.