A leading
academic in space law from Northumbria University has been named as a keynote speaker
at the Edinburgh International Science Festival, one of the sector’s most
influential and anticipated gatherings of experts.
Professor
Christopher Newman from Northumbria Law School is one of the UK and Europe’s
leading experts in space law and policy. He leads a field of experts examining
fictional and theory-based topics including space law, ethics and ownership of
the moon. His work also involves examining Government’s recent UK Space
Legislation Act which came into force on 15 March.
With the recent
passing of world famous physicist, Professor Stephen Hawking CH CBE FRS FRSA, the
two-week science festival in Edinburgh is expected to attract heightened media
attention worldwide when it takes place from 31 March – 15 April 2018.
Professor
Newman, along with specialist space lawyer, Joanne Wheeler, will host a 90
minute talk entitled ‘Space Outlaw’ which will examine the relationship between
law and space ethics as well as wider theories surrounding the Universe and
life itself. They will also examine space exploration theories never discussed
publicly, as well as the legal issues that may influence them.
Professor
Newman commented, “The event is for everyone from leading panelists and
academics to members of the public who simply have an interest in space and the
universe around us. We are aiming to open our industry up to everyone and
encourage people of all ages to examine the many mysteries that still exist,
and certainly over recent years, the likes of the late Professor Hawking and
Professor Brian Cox have done a great job doing so and engaging a much wider
and younger audience.
“Science,
especially space exploration, is a very thought provoking subject as it opens
up a plethora of avenues in terms of celebrated works that we have come to know
and understand, as well as new scientific theories examining what the future
may hold. Of course, everyone has their own opinion which again lends itself to
fantastic conversations and discussions so we are expecting a great number of
people to come along and take part.”
This year’s
event will be exploring the theme of ‘Life, the Universe and Everything’ and
will contemplate the diversity of life in all forms on Earth and beyond. Now in
its 30th year, the Edinburgh International Science Festival also
supports a wider STEM curriculum, in particular, how science, technology,
engineering and mathematics can help to sustain the planet in the future.
Professor
Newman is actively engaged in space law research and is due to release his book
‘Frontiers of Risk’ shortly. He has been teaching space law for over ten years
and is part of an internationally recognised network of academics and legal
practitioners who communicate on space and policy issues.
His
discussion, Space Outlaw, will take place at 5:30pm on Friday 13 April 2018 at
the Edinburgh Science Festival (Red Lecture Theatre, Summerhall). More details
can be found here.
