Technology network hears of space advances

A Sparc product story

Edited by the Engineeringtalk editorial team Nov 9, 2006

Professor John Zarnecki was invited to give the keynote address at the October Sparc technology network held at Jury's Inn, Central Milton Keynes.

Professor John Zarnecki, Professor of Space Science, Director of the Centre for Earth, Planetary, Space and Astronomical Research (CEPSAR) and principal investigator for the Huygens probe to Titan, from the Open University was invited to give the keynote address at the October Sparc technology network held at Jury's Inn, Central Milton Keynes.

With over 30 years experience of space research spanning a number of space missions, including sounding rockets, Earth-orbiting missions and interplanetary flights, Professor Zarnecki wowed Sparc members with a first hand account of working on some of the most pioneering space research of this decade.

He also displayed a piece of Mars, one of only 30 known pieces to exist, for members to hold.

Joining him on the platform was his colleague, Dr Geraint Morgan.

"As well as a fascinating presentation about his work, Professor Zarnecki and Dr Geraint Morgan hosted a facilitated question and answer session which highlighted a very serious problem for UK technology businesses and resulted in an enthusiastic debate about what could be done", explained Chris Dunkley, Sparc Network Director.

"Young people's interest in science is in decline which has already led to Reading University's physics department closing down among others".

"Employers are increasingly worried about the long-term decline in scientists and technologists coming out of our universities".

A report, written for the Royal Astronomical Society (RAS) last year warned that Britain risks being isolated on the international stage if it continues its longstanding refusal to fund the human exploration of space.

"A British citisen cannot be an astronaut", said professor Zarnecki.

"UK born astronauts must have a dual passport and fly under a foreign flag".

"This is not a positive message to give to young people".

"It is clear we need role models in science and technology to share their enthusiasm for science and help persuade them to study the core individual science subjects".

Grant Seeley, Director of Investment for Milton Keynes is a supporter of the Sparc Technology network and also involved in the planning of Milton Keynes' first science festival: "The festival is planned for July 2007 in partnership with local schools, universities and businesses".

"One of the primary aims is to engage young people in the region in science, engineering and technology (SET) and to provide a focus for young people to get involved in SET events".

"Our aim is to raise their aspirations to encourage them to consider potential careers".

In the "Pitch Battle", the winner was Mark Sampson from Sampson Technologies with his pitch about trim-trackers, an anti-theft device, which speaks directly to a mobile phone informing the user if their car has moved from its parked position.

One of the UK's best-known and sought-after speakers on entrepreneurship, Robert Craven will be speaking at Sparc's November event was held on 13th November at Jury's Inn, Milton Keynes.

Having been described by the Financial Times as "the entrepreneurship guru", Craven offered practical solutions to generate tangible business results.

Craven's work on marketing and strategy has been widely published and acted on by thousands of growing businesses.

For more information on up-coming events, lists and biographies of future guest speakers, live film footage from each event, news and information on membership application, visit www.sparcmiltonkeynes.com.

Businesses from technology related sectors can apply online for free membership and will enjoy discounted admission for future events.