#maggie aderin-pocock

[justforbooks]

‘It’s human conceit to think we’re alone’: life must extend beyond Earth, leading space scientist says

It is imperative humans expand their understanding of space, argues Dame Maggie Aderin-Pocock

Life must exist beyond Earth, a leading space scientist says, adding it is yet another example of human pride to suppose otherwise.

The British space scientist Dame Maggie Aderin-Pocock, who will be giving the Royal Institution Christmas Lectures this year, said that while science had made giant leaps in the understanding of space, including the sheer size of the universe, there was still much to learn – not least whether humans were alone.

“My answer to that, based on the numbers, is no, we can’t be,” said Aderin-Pocock. “It’s that human conceit again that we are so caught up in ourselves that we might think we’re alone.”

It is not the only outstanding question.

“The fact we only know what approximately 6% of the universe is made of at this stage is a bit embarrassing,” she said, noting the vast majority of the universe was made of dark energy and dark matter – mysterious substances people still did not understand.

It is this contrast of startling revelations and unanswered conundrums that Aderin-Pocock is due to unpick in the 2025 Royal Institution Christmas Lectures – a prestigious series of public talks initiated by the chemist and physicist Michael Faraday in 1825.

“It’s that sense of wonder and exploration, and the sense that there’s so much more to discover,” she said, emphasising that scientific progress was not one eureka moment after the next, but a journey in which some theories fell by the wayside while others were taken further.

As Aderin-Pocock noted, the idea that the Earth was at the centre of the universe – championed by the philosopher Aristotle – lasted for centuries before being overturned, while it was the work of Henrietta Swan Leavitt in the 19th century that gave astronomers the means to understand the scale of the universe.

“And then suddenly we realised that we were so much more insignificant than we ever thought,” said Aderin-Pocock, adding that the astronomer Edwin Hubble subsequently showed the universe was expanding, while the eponymous Hubble space telescope later revealed there were about 200bn galaxies out there.

This is a big year for the Royal Institution, marking the bicentenary of three of Faraday’s triumphs: the Christmas Lectures, the discovery of benzene and the Friday Evening Discourses – now given once a month as the Ri Discourses and not always on a Friday.

The organisation is launching a year-long celebration called Discover200 that will feature a candlelit discourse and recreations of past lectures, a new demonstration show and the release of all past filmed series of Christmas Lectures on YouTube. In addition, the Royal Institution is asking people to share their memories of attending the Christmas Lectures and Ri Discourses.

Aderin-Pocock is also hoping to mine the institution’s archives for clips from previous years, including the lectures by the American astronomer Carl Sagan, to explore how understanding of space has changed.

Key among the missions challenging current theories is the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), which was launched on Christmas Day 2021. With its huge 18-segment mirror the telescope acts like a time machine, capturing light from distant galaxies that – because light travels at a finite speed – was produced when the universe was still young.

“One of the things that it’s discovering is that galaxies seem to be bigger than we anticipated in the early universe,” said Aderin-Pocock. The discovery has thrown up a host of questions, including whether the laws of physics are constant and whether dark matter really exists.

For Aderin-Pocock, the JWST is personal: she worked on one of its instruments known as the Near-Infrared Spectrograph.

But the mission is facing budget cuts of up to 20% – and that is before the US Department of Government Efficiency (Doge), overseen by the tech entrepreneur Elon Musk, has finished scrutinising Nasa.

For Aderin-Pocock the role of Musk – who is CEO of the space technology company Space X – in assessing the agency is a conflict of interest.

“It’s an odd stance to take to have Musk looking at this, because you need someone independent, you need someone with distance from this. And to me, ideally, someone from a different arena, so that they aren’t caught up in all the baggage that we carry around when we work in an industry, but bring a new light to it,” she said. “And so the fact that Elon Musk is involved in this seems like a bad idea to me.”

And while Aderin-Pocock is excited that the commercialisation of space –something she labels the “battle of the billionaires” – could hasten her dream of space travel, she said legislation is crucial.

“Sometimes it feels a bit like the wild west where people are doing what they want out there, and without the proper constraints I think we could make a mess again,” she said. “And again, if there is an opportunity to utilise space for the benefit of humanity, let it be for all of humanity.”

Yet, like Musk, she is keen for crewed missions to other planets. “I won’t say it’s our destiny because that sounds a bit weird, but I think it is our future,” she said. “We live on our planet and, I don’t want to sound scary, but planets can be vulnerable.”

Aderin-Pocock notes that an asteroid wiped out the dinosaurs, and while humans are now keeping an eye on space rocks coming close to Earth, they are not the only hazard that could decimate humanity.

“So I think it makes sense to look out there to where we might have other colonies – on the moon, on Mars and then beyond as well,” she said.

Daily inspiration. Discover more photos at Just for Books…?

[panelshowsource]

i'm going to be removing some stranglers from my drive later this week, so i want to make sure if anyone hasn't had a chance to grab these yet that they do!

michael mcintyre's the wheel — s05e07 chris & rosie ramsey, sam campbell, bruno tonioli, maggie aderin-pocock, guz khan, clare balding

bad tidings 2024 lee mack, chris mccausland

the singing detective

the mind of herbert clunkerdunk

mandy — series 3 diane morgan

flying the flag

bbc two's comedy shorts

it's been a bad week

[racingliners]

Maggie Aderin-Pocock in deely boppers is the energy I'm taking into 2025

[hbcsource]

@hayfestival: Backstage at yesterday's A Nursery Rhyme for Every Night of the Year event. Allie Esiri and special guests offered up a joyful session of stories and rhymes featuring Maggie Aderin-Pocock, Brian Bilston, Helena Bonham Carter, JB Gill, Tony Robinson, Michael Rosen, Samuel West, Olivia Williams and Julia Donaldson. Allie’s anthology A Nursery Rhyme for Every Night of the Year is a definitive collection of nursery rhymes, each introduced with a quirky fact or historical reference. Readers of all ages will love it. 📸: @billie_charity #HayFestival #HayFestival2023 #AllieEsiri #helenabonhamcarter

[emeraldlabyrinth]

August's Super Blue Moon

A super blue moon may not actually be blue but it's still especially beautiful.

To celebrate this rare splendor, here's a little list of some books I found about the moon.

The Moon by the Royal Observatory

science and history

The Quiet Moon by Kevin Parr

Folklore and culture

From The Earth To The Moon by Jules Verne

A fiction book written before the first moon landing

Book of The Moon by Dr. Maggie Aderin-Pocock

A mixture of science, culture, history, and the potential future of the moon.

[chilimili212]

One thing we all have in common is that we have – or had – a mother. Being a mum is no easy task and, as Mother’s Day approaches on 30th March, we’re reminded of the countless incredible women who balance the demands of motherhood with their professional pursuits. Such wise women manage to find ways to not only nurture their families but also make significant contributions to society, breaking barriers and inspiring others along the way. It therefore feels only right to highlight some remarkable women in the public eye who exemplify strength, resilience and wisdom in their roles, both as mothers and as leaders in their respective fields. Dame Dr. Maggie Aderin-Pocock: Reaching for the Stars as a Mother and Scientist Dame Dr. Maggie Aderin-Pocock is a trailblazer in the world of space science and science education. Born in London to Nigerian parents, Maggie overcame early challenges including dyslexia to become a renowned space scientist. Her journey from a child struggling with learning difficulties to a leading figure in her field is a testament to the power of perseverance and passion. As a mother to her daughter Lauren, Maggie has shown that balancing a successful career in science with family life is possible. She has even incorporated her role as a mother into her work by co-presenting the CBBC show “Out of This World” with Lauren. This collaboration demonstrates just one way in which she is passing on her passion for science to the next generation. Maggie’s commitment to inspiring young people in science is evident in her extensive outreach work. She has spoken to over 100,000 children, encouraging them to pursue their dreams in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) fields. Her contributions to science and science communication have been widely recognised, culminating in her appointment as Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE) in 2024. Gill Thomas: Embracing Difference and Inspiring Change Gill Thomas’s journey is a testament to the power of self-acceptance and determination. Born with an upper limb difference, Gill spent much of her life trying to conform to societal norms. However, in her 40s, she made a pivotal decision to embrace her uniqueness and use her experiences to advocate for inclusivity. Gill’s appearance on BBC1’s “The Great British Sewing Bee” in 2022 marked a significant moment in mainstream television representation. Her participation demonstrated that disability doesn’t define one’s abilities or limit their potential. As a mother, Gill’s journey of self-acceptance and courage serves as an inspiring example both for her children and viewers alike. Denise Lewis OBE: Olympic Gold Medallist and Devoted Mother Denise Lewis OBE is a name synonymous with athletic excellence and determination. As an Olympic champion in the heptathlon, Denise has shown that motherhood and a successful career can go hand in hand. Her journey to the top of her sport was not without its challenges, but it was her own mother’s unwavering support that played a crucial role in her success. Denise credits her mother, Joan, for instilling in her the work ethic and drive that led to her Olympic gold medal. Now a mother of four herself, Denise continues to inspire others both on and off the track. Her story highlights the importance of family support and the powerful and enduring impact a mother’s encouragement can have on a child’s aspirations. Katie Piper: True Resilience in the Face of Adversity Katie Piper’s story is one of incredible resilience and transformation. After surviving a life-changing acid attack, Katie has become a powerful advocate for burn survivors and an inspiration to many. Her journey from trauma to triumph is testament to the human spirit’s capacity to overcome seemingly insurmountable odds. As a mother of two, Katie’s experiences have shaped her approach to parenting. She emphasises the importance of teaching her children about confidence, self-acceptance and the value of inner beauty. Katie’s story reminds us that motherhood can be a source of strength and motivation, even in the face of some of life’s greatest challenges. Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson: Breaking Barriers in Sport and Politics Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson is a true pioneer in both the world of Paralympic sport and British politics. As one of Britain’s most successful Paralympic athletes, Tanni has won 11 gold medals and broken 30 world records. Her transition from athletics to the House of Lords demonstrates her commitment to making a difference beyond the sporting arena. Tanni’s journey into motherhood brought new challenges and joys. Her experiences as a disabled parent have given her unique insights into the needs of families dealing with disability. Tanni’s advocacy work in the House of Lords, particularly on issues affecting disabled people and families, is informed by her personal experiences as both an athlete and a mother. Susie Wolff: Driving Change in Motorsport Susie Wolff has made – and continues to make – her mark on the male-dominated world of motorsport in myriad ways and is the current managing director of F1 Academy, a female-only Formula 4-level single-seater racing championship founded by the Formula One Group. Susie’s journey from karting as a child to the pinnacle of motorsport, Formula One, is a story of breaking gender barriers and pursuing one’s passion relentlessly. Following a strong career as a driver in various motorsport categories, she became a development driver for the Williams F1 team in 2012 and in a groundbreaking moment at the 2014 British Grand Prix at Silverstone she became the first woman in over two decades to participate in a Formula One race weekend by taking part in one of the free practice sessions. Today she continues to push for diversity and change in motorsport, and rumours are afoot that she will put herself forward as a presidential candidate for the upcoming elections for the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), the governing body of many auto racing events including Formula One. As a mother, Susie brings the same determination to parenting that she showed on the racetrack. She often speaks about the importance of creating a supportive environment for children to pursue their dreams, regardless of gender stereotypes. Susie’s experiences in motorsport and motherhood make her a powerful role model for young girls and boys alike, showing that gender should never be a limiting factor in one’s ambitions. The Power of Professional Speaking: Inspiring Audiences Beyond the Page These six wise women, all with their own diverse experiences and achievements, have powerful stories to share. Through professional speaking engagements, they inspire and motivate audiences in ways that go beyond their public personas. A speakers Booking Agent can help organisations tap into the wisdom and experiences of these remarkable women, bringing their stories to life for various audiences. Professional speakers can enhance a wide range of events and engagements. Some examples include: Corporate conferences: Inspiring employees with stories of resilience and success Educational institutions: Motivating students to pursue their dreams despite obstacles Charity fundraisers: Raising awareness and funds for important causes Women’s leadership seminars: Empowering women in business and beyond Diversity and inclusion workshops: Promoting understanding and acceptance in the workplace Sports team motivational talks: Encouraging athletes to push their limits with inspirational stories from those with first-hand experience Parenting conferences: Sharing insights on balancing career and family Technology and innovation summits: Discussing breaking barriers in male-dominated fields Mental health awareness events: Sharing personal stories of overcoming trauma Political and policy forums: Providing unique perspectives on societal issues Some more unusual examples where an inspirational speaker for women could make a significant impact include: Adventure and outdoor retreats: Inspiring participants to embrace challenges and step out of their comfort zone Culinary and nutrition conferences: Discussing the importance of resilience and adaptability in pursuing one’s passions Automotive industry events: Challenging gender stereotypes and promoting diversity in traditionally male-dominated sectors Virtual reality and gaming conventions: Exploring the potential of technology in overcoming physical limitations and promoting inclusivity Fashion and beauty expos: Redefining beauty standards and promoting self-acceptance By sharing their experiences as mothers, professionals and trailblazers, these well-known women can provide unique insights and inspiration to a wide range of audiences. Their stories of overcoming adversity, balancing family life with career ambitions and breaking societal barriers resonate with people from all walks of life and of all ages. Taking Inspiration from Wise Women As we prepare to celebrate Mother’s Day, it’s a great time to take inspiration from all women who have shown us that motherhood, far from being a limitation, can be a source of strength and motivation. Their stories remind us that with determination, support and resilience, it is possible to overcome even the greatest of challenges and make a lasting positive impact on the world around us. We are all surrounded by wise women – both celebrities and those in our everyday lives – who demonstrate every day that being a mother doesn’t mean putting your dreams on hold. Instead, it can be the very thing that drives you to achieve greatness, not just for yourself, but for your children and for future generations. Let’s make sure we celebrate and emanate the wisdom, strength and inspiration that all women bring to our lives. As always, thanks for reading! Source link

[oliviajoyice21]

One thing we all have in common is that we have – or had – a mother. Being a mum is no easy task and, as Mother’s Day approaches on 30th March, we’re reminded of the countless incredible women who balance the demands of motherhood with their professional pursuits. Such wise women manage to find ways to not only nurture their families but also make significant contributions to society, breaking barriers and inspiring others along the way. It therefore feels only right to highlight some remarkable women in the public eye who exemplify strength, resilience and wisdom in their roles, both as mothers and as leaders in their respective fields. Dame Dr. Maggie Aderin-Pocock: Reaching for the Stars as a Mother and Scientist Dame Dr. Maggie Aderin-Pocock is a trailblazer in the world of space science and science education. Born in London to Nigerian parents, Maggie overcame early challenges including dyslexia to become a renowned space scientist. Her journey from a child struggling with learning difficulties to a leading figure in her field is a testament to the power of perseverance and passion. As a mother to her daughter Lauren, Maggie has shown that balancing a successful career in science with family life is possible. She has even incorporated her role as a mother into her work by co-presenting the CBBC show “Out of This World” with Lauren. This collaboration demonstrates just one way in which she is passing on her passion for science to the next generation. Maggie’s commitment to inspiring young people in science is evident in her extensive outreach work. She has spoken to over 100,000 children, encouraging them to pursue their dreams in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) fields. Her contributions to science and science communication have been widely recognised, culminating in her appointment as Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE) in 2024. Gill Thomas: Embracing Difference and Inspiring Change Gill Thomas’s journey is a testament to the power of self-acceptance and determination. Born with an upper limb difference, Gill spent much of her life trying to conform to societal norms. However, in her 40s, she made a pivotal decision to embrace her uniqueness and use her experiences to advocate for inclusivity. Gill’s appearance on BBC1’s “The Great British Sewing Bee” in 2022 marked a significant moment in mainstream television representation. Her participation demonstrated that disability doesn’t define one’s abilities or limit their potential. As a mother, Gill’s journey of self-acceptance and courage serves as an inspiring example both for her children and viewers alike. Denise Lewis OBE: Olympic Gold Medallist and Devoted Mother Denise Lewis OBE is a name synonymous with athletic excellence and determination. As an Olympic champion in the heptathlon, Denise has shown that motherhood and a successful career can go hand in hand. Her journey to the top of her sport was not without its challenges, but it was her own mother’s unwavering support that played a crucial role in her success. Denise credits her mother, Joan, for instilling in her the work ethic and drive that led to her Olympic gold medal. Now a mother of four herself, Denise continues to inspire others both on and off the track. Her story highlights the importance of family support and the powerful and enduring impact a mother’s encouragement can have on a child’s aspirations. Katie Piper: True Resilience in the Face of Adversity Katie Piper’s story is one of incredible resilience and transformation. After surviving a life-changing acid attack, Katie has become a powerful advocate for burn survivors and an inspiration to many. Her journey from trauma to triumph is testament to the human spirit’s capacity to overcome seemingly insurmountable odds. As a mother of two, Katie’s experiences have shaped her approach to parenting. She emphasises the importance of teaching her children about confidence, self-acceptance and the value of inner beauty. Katie’s story reminds us that motherhood can be a source of strength and motivation, even in the face of some of life’s greatest challenges. Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson: Breaking Barriers in Sport and Politics Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson is a true pioneer in both the world of Paralympic sport and British politics. As one of Britain’s most successful Paralympic athletes, Tanni has won 11 gold medals and broken 30 world records. Her transition from athletics to the House of Lords demonstrates her commitment to making a difference beyond the sporting arena. Tanni’s journey into motherhood brought new challenges and joys. Her experiences as a disabled parent have given her unique insights into the needs of families dealing with disability. Tanni’s advocacy work in the House of Lords, particularly on issues affecting disabled people and families, is informed by her personal experiences as both an athlete and a mother. Susie Wolff: Driving Change in Motorsport Susie Wolff has made – and continues to make – her mark on the male-dominated world of motorsport in myriad ways and is the current managing director of F1 Academy, a female-only Formula 4-level single-seater racing championship founded by the Formula One Group. Susie’s journey from karting as a child to the pinnacle of motorsport, Formula One, is a story of breaking gender barriers and pursuing one’s passion relentlessly. Following a strong career as a driver in various motorsport categories, she became a development driver for the Williams F1 team in 2012 and in a groundbreaking moment at the 2014 British Grand Prix at Silverstone she became the first woman in over two decades to participate in a Formula One race weekend by taking part in one of the free practice sessions. Today she continues to push for diversity and change in motorsport, and rumours are afoot that she will put herself forward as a presidential candidate for the upcoming elections for the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), the governing body of many auto racing events including Formula One. As a mother, Susie brings the same determination to parenting that she showed on the racetrack. She often speaks about the importance of creating a supportive environment for children to pursue their dreams, regardless of gender stereotypes. Susie’s experiences in motorsport and motherhood make her a powerful role model for young girls and boys alike, showing that gender should never be a limiting factor in one’s ambitions. The Power of Professional Speaking: Inspiring Audiences Beyond the Page These six wise women, all with their own diverse experiences and achievements, have powerful stories to share. Through professional speaking engagements, they inspire and motivate audiences in ways that go beyond their public personas. A speakers Booking Agent can help organisations tap into the wisdom and experiences of these remarkable women, bringing their stories to life for various audiences. Professional speakers can enhance a wide range of events and engagements. Some examples include: Corporate conferences: Inspiring employees with stories of resilience and success Educational institutions: Motivating students to pursue their dreams despite obstacles Charity fundraisers: Raising awareness and funds for important causes Women’s leadership seminars: Empowering women in business and beyond Diversity and inclusion workshops: Promoting understanding and acceptance in the workplace Sports team motivational talks: Encouraging athletes to push their limits with inspirational stories from those with first-hand experience Parenting conferences: Sharing insights on balancing career and family Technology and innovation summits: Discussing breaking barriers in male-dominated fields Mental health awareness events: Sharing personal stories of overcoming trauma Political and policy forums: Providing unique perspectives on societal issues Some more unusual examples where an inspirational speaker for women could make a significant impact include: Adventure and outdoor retreats: Inspiring participants to embrace challenges and step out of their comfort zone Culinary and nutrition conferences: Discussing the importance of resilience and adaptability in pursuing one’s passions Automotive industry events: Challenging gender stereotypes and promoting diversity in traditionally male-dominated sectors Virtual reality and gaming conventions: Exploring the potential of technology in overcoming physical limitations and promoting inclusivity Fashion and beauty expos: Redefining beauty standards and promoting self-acceptance By sharing their experiences as mothers, professionals and trailblazers, these well-known women can provide unique insights and inspiration to a wide range of audiences. Their stories of overcoming adversity, balancing family life with career ambitions and breaking societal barriers resonate with people from all walks of life and of all ages. Taking Inspiration from Wise Women As we prepare to celebrate Mother’s Day, it’s a great time to take inspiration from all women who have shown us that motherhood, far from being a limitation, can be a source of strength and motivation. Their stories remind us that with determination, support and resilience, it is possible to overcome even the greatest of challenges and make a lasting positive impact on the world around us. We are all surrounded by wise women – both celebrities and those in our everyday lives – who demonstrate every day that being a mother doesn’t mean putting your dreams on hold. Instead, it can be the very thing that drives you to achieve greatness, not just for yourself, but for your children and for future generations. Let’s make sure we celebrate and emanate the wisdom, strength and inspiration that all women bring to our lives. As always, thanks for reading! Source link

[radioclasic]

Există viață în Univers? Oamenii de știință spun că nu suntem singuri

Omenirea ar trebui să renunțe la ideea că este singura formă de viață inteligentă din univers, susține cunoscutul om de știință britanic Dame Maggie Aderin-Pocock. Aceasta consideră că, având în vedere vastitatea universului, existența vieții extraterestre este inevitabilă. „Este doar o expresie a mândriei umane să credem că suntem singuri”, a declarat Aderin-Pocock, care urmează să susțină…

[panelshowsource]

rather than who you would like to see on the next taskmaster series, who do you think will be on it? like just your predictions or any inklings you may have!

anon if you're still around then you'll know i really took my time with this hahaha so sorry! i hope anyone reading this takes it as just a bit of fun and nbd, who knows who we'll get or who alex & the network have in mind! i'm answering thoughtfully (bc i always feel guilty not to 😩 so sorry this is long lol) but it's really just fun!!

i will say, of the more recent-ish series, i did get a few right!!! krishnan guru-murthy, nicola coughlan, alan davies, judi love, sue perkins, john robins, and joanne mcnally were people i just knew would eventually be on if the show could get their schedules right, and i was also certain sarah millican and dara ó briain would be asked — though not necessarily that they'd actually agree. when you have a level of seniority and esteem, the "it's such a great opportunity" aspect of the show isn't such a draw 😅 for some reason i feel SO PROUD about guessing nicola! i was just WAITING and wish sooooo much she had done a full series 😭😭😭 (how fun would saoirse-monica jackson be too!)

anyways, as for people who haven't been on yet — and this isn't to say i want them all to be, just that i think it's likeliest they have been asked or will be asked; i talked about who i want to see a little while ago here — it's important to consider the casting 'roles' the network has in mind when working with the producers to form a series, so i will keep that in mind too!

established comedian, typically a straight white man over 40: bill bailey, vic reeves, harry hill, geoff norcott, kevin bridges, adam buxton, ade edmondson, paul whitehouse (tommy tiernan? god i feel bad for not saying ed byrne but why do i feel like he's not gonna make it in the next few series? i'm on the fence with nick helm — unless he's friends with alex, then his chances go up significantly imo — and tom allen for some reason, and i feel like john bishop is almost too much of an ask?)

fresh talent comedian, typically a man under 40: rhys james, huge davies, ahir shah, darren harriott would be my top guesses but tbh any of the semi-recent edinburgh comedy award finalists are good bets as a majority of the winners from the last ~10 years have been on the series + throwing out tom rosenthal (i know he's not fresh fresh and also mostly an actor)...and, like, jazz emu?...just because if taskmaster know how much its audience adores weird little white twinks then they'll cast them

female or non-binary comedian: 100% sarah keyworth + harriet kemsley, maisie adam, jess fostekew, suzi ruffell. i've shifted away from betting on cariad lloyd and catherine bohart for some reason... (joanne was my no.1 lady bet for the last like 4 series hahaha)

non-comedian: this is very, very hard to predict because between comedy actors, non-comedy actors, tv presenters, news people, reality & social media stars... the potential predictions are just so endless! logically, the most likely is an established actor with a lot of comedy connections (think sally phillips, lolly adefope, liza tarbuck, sian gibson, daisy may cooper, susan wokoma; this category is where tm gets quite a few of its female contestants): matt holness, kevin eldon, amanda abbington, tom davis, sharon horgan, kathy burke, georgia tennant (also friends w alex?), su pollard, tom basden, apparently anyone from the cast of ghosts, and so on and so on and so on... + i'll also throw out maggie aderin-pocock as a serious contender + i really feel like one of the spice girls will be on new years treat

friend of alex: john robins was the prediction for the past few series, so just worth keeping in mind other people in this circle include elis james, matthew crosby, tom neenan, and so on

freebie answers because alex/greg have mentioned them before: jack dee, lorraine kelly, joanna lumley (i want jennifer saunders SO BAD give us an epic series w both ade and jen pleaseeee tm gods!!!!)

complete wild card bets that are either my instincts kicking in or my bias taking over: limmy, adam buxton, paddy mcguinness, diane morgan, daniel sloss, joel dommett, jess hynes, spencer jones??, alasdair beckett-king or josh pugh + if suzy izzard wasn't doing a big nyc show i'd say that's a good guess if only bc you know greg & alex grew up big fans

did i mention too many people?? if i had to put my money behind a single person it would be either ahir shah or sarah keyworth

these are almost all of my fr big heavy hitters when it comes to placing bets! but there are of course so many people i didn't name who i could totally see on either a main series or the ny treat — so many people just make sense and that's the beauty of taskmaster!!

[knick-nudiex]

Computer Science

Who are the 7 black pioneers in computer science?

Let's take a look at 10 Black pioneers in Computer Science that have made the industry what it is today..

Katherine Johnson. You may know of Katherine Johnson from the film Hidden Figures. ...

Kimberley Bryant. ...

Mark Dean. ...

Marie Van Brittan Brown. ...

Dr Segun Fatumo. ...

Dr Mae Jemison. ...

Dr Maggie Aderin-Pocock. ...

Marian R.

[cowsandcrows]

every single day i consider bashing my head in with a hammer because i got to see Dr Maggie Aderin-Pocock give a lecture in person. AND I FELL ASLEEP. SHE WORKED ON THE LITERAL JAMES WEBB TELESCOPE AND I FELL ASLEEP. every time i remember this i consider death. i dont deserve anything less

[pastedpast]

Pages from 'Book Of The Moon: A Guide to Our Closest Neighbour' by Dr. Maggie Aderin-Pocock.

[hbcsource]

@zvsweet: Day 3 @hayfestival Space, Shakespeare and Sustenance… the phenomenal Dr Maggie Aderin-Pocock #clangers and always the best bit of any event, Helena Bonham-Carter ❤️ so much in between and of course @OldBlackLionhay #delicious #saturdaymood

[jingszo]

Quoting respected members of the scientific community that included UK astrophysicists Maggie Aderin-Pocock and Becky Smethurst, as well as astronaut Tim Peake, all of whom seemed to strongly allude to a discovery currently still on the path toward peer review

“I think we are going to get a paper that claims to have strong evidence for a biosignature in an exoplanet’s atmosphere very, very soon,” Smethurst was quoted saying. “Let’s just say it’s on my bingo card for 2024.”

Peake had been even less ambiguous while speaking during a CNBC interview in the first days of the new year, where he said the prospects that alien life might have been discovered were looking increasingly good.

“Potentially, the James Webb telescope may have already found [it],” though also emphasizing that nothing conclusive had been released yet since scientists involved in the prospective discovery “don’t want to release or confirm those results until they can be entirely sure,” though adding cryptically that “we found a planet that seems to be giving off strong signals of biological life.”

In other words, if these observations are what they appear to be, then it seems like there’s a good chance that we may already be on course for a tremendous discovery this year; one that could potentially offer the most convincing evidence to date that life may exist on worlds beyond our own.