A choose-your-own adventure discovery in the sky!

Lovell Lecture Series 2026
19.30 – 21.00

Ever wondered what it’s like to be an astronomer who spots something new and mysterious in the night sky? Join Professor René Breton on an interactive journey into the world of astronomical discovery as you experience the thrill of uncovering cosmic mysteries first hand.

In this unique “choose-your-own adventure” lecture, you will step into an astronomer’s shoes and help investigate a “real” astronomical transient – from the initial thrill of discovery, to the detective work of follow-up observations and reporting the results to the world.

About René Breton

Professor René Breton is a leading astrophysics at the Jodrell Bank Centre for Astrophysics and Deputy Head of the Department of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Manchester. He received his PhD in Physics from McGill University in 2009 and has since been awarded prestigious grants, including a Marie Skłodowska-Curie Fellowship and a European Research Council Starter Grant.

René specialises in pulsar research, studying matter under extreme density, gravity, and magnetic fields. He is internationally recognised for his work on ‘spider binaries’ – energetic millisecond pulsars that gradually erode their companion stars through intense radiation, much like the deadly black widow spider. His research provided the first test of ‘geodetic spin precession’ in a strong gravity environment.

A passionate science communicator, Professor Breton has delivered hundreds of public lectures since his teenage years. His research also extends to satellite imaging for detecting invasive plants and image analysis for DNA research.

Guests also have the option to book a pre-lecture meal at our fantastic First Light Café, choosing from the options below:

MENU

Pie, Mash, Peas & Gravy £13.95

• • Cheese & Onion – Packed with gooey mature cheddar cheese, sautéed onions, and potato (v, halal) 2022 SILVER: The British Pie Awards.
  • Steak & Stout Flank Steak – bathed in Guinness stout for 24 hours, braised and slow-cooked with carrots, garlic, onions, bay leaf, and thyme, with a rich stout gravy.
  • Aloo Saag Spinach & Sweet Potato – cooked in our own blend of spices with a spicy tomato curry sauce (v, vegan, halal).

The café will be open from 18.00 – 19.15, with the last sitting at 18.50.