Lovell Lecture Series 2026
19.30 – 21.00

Women have played a crucial role in the development of astronomy, yet their contributions have often been overlooked or underrepresented. In this Lovell Lecture, Dr Sian Prosser explores the stories of the women who helped shape our understanding of the Universe, bringing their achievements into sharper focus.

From early pioneers such as Caroline Herschel and Mary Somerville – among the first women to be recognised by the Royal Astronomical Society – to a wider constellation of lesser-known figures, this lecture reveals the breadth and depth of women’s impact on the field. Their work spans observation, calculation, theory, and discovery, forming an essential part of astronomy’s history.

Drawing on her role as Librarian and Archivist at the Royal Astronomical Society, Dr Prosser offers unique insight into the archives and personal histories behind these achievements. She highlights both the scientific legacy of these women and the challenges they faced in gaining recognition in a traditionally male-dominated discipline.

Join us for an inspiring journey through the stories of the women who mapped the stars, and a fresh perspective that celebrates the people behind the science as much as the discoveries themselves.