Swindon Science Cafe - Behind the Scenes at the Science Museum

The Science Museum’s world class-collection forms an enduring record of scientific, technological and medical advancements from across the globe.

Whilst many know the collections on display in the London home, fewer are aware that most of the 7 million objects that the Science Museum Group cares for are housed just outside Swindon.

Join us for an informal evening of discussion and discovery, as Libby Jackson, Head of Space at the Science Museum, shares stories of Museum life, both from London, and from Wroughton.

Libby Jackson OBE is Head of Space at the Science Museum. Libby plays a key role in the museum’s space-related public engagement activities and supports the museum’s curators to acquire new space technologies for the national collection.

Jackson was previously the UK Space Agency’s Head of Space Exploration, responsible for delivering the UK’s activities in both human and robotic missions that explore Low Earth Orbit, Moon and Mars. She is one of Britain’s leading experts in human spaceflight, having spent nearly two decades working at the forefront of the field in mission control and management roles, including overseeing the hugely successful education programme for Tim Peake’s mission to the International Space Station.

Jackson has had a life-long interest in space exploration. After graduating with a BSc in Physics from Imperial College and a Master’s degree in Astronautics and Space Engineering from Cranfield University, she worked for Airbus Defence and Space in satellite operations. Prior to her time at the UK Space Agency, Jackson worked in Mission Control as a flight controller and then Flight Director for the Columbus module, Europe’s laboratory on the ISS. She was awarded an OBE in the 2023 New Year’s Honours list for her services to the Space Sector, and an Honorary Doctorate of Science from the University of Kent in 2021.

SWINDON SCIENCE CAFE

Science Cafes are an informal opportunity to explore the latest ideas in science and technology. Rather than a long lecture, you can expect a lively, two-way conversation with a researcher - over a drink or two!

Everyone is welcome to come and express their views or just enjoy a drink and listen. No scientific knowledge is needed to take part - just bring your curiosity, and maybe your own bottle of choice.

WHEN: The first Tuesday of each month from 7pm - 9pm.

WHERE: Innovation Centre for Applied Sustainable Technologies (iCAST) Creative Hub located in the iconic Carriage Works. 10 Carriage Works, Unit 7B, London Street, Swindon, SN1 5FBEnter the following three words into the What Three Words app to find the exact location:

Front entrance: ///friday.index.solo

Rear entrance: ///cups.shell.face

REFRESHMENTS: A selection of light refreshments will be available in return for a donation, or you are welcome to bring your own drinks and snacks with you. Please bring cash with you for donations to cover the costs of drinks on the night.

The Festival of Tomorrow

The Royal Agriculture University

Swindon and Wiltshire Institute of Technology

The University of Bath Innovation Centre for Applied Sustainable Technologies (iCAST)

Please note that filming/photography will take place at this event for promotional purposes. The photographs made may appear on the organising committee websites, on social media or in press releases relating to the event.

If you would prefer not to be photographed please let the organisers know.

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