Ian Crawford is an astronomer turned planetary scientist, and is currently professor of planetary science and astrobiology at Birkbeck College, University of London. He is presently also senior secretary of the UK Royal Astronomical Society. The main focus of his research is in the area of lunar exploration, including the remote sensing of the lunar surface and the laboratory analysis of lunar samples. Ian also has strong interests in the new science of astrobiology, the study of the astronomical and planetary context of the origin and evolution of life. He is a strong advocate for the renewed human exploration of the Moon, the eventual human exploration of Mars, and the development of a spacefaring infrastructure within the solar system, which he believes will confer many scientific and societal benefits on humanity. A more detailed summary of interests, and list of publications, can be found on his personal website. |
America: the twilight years?
"Five debates a day sounds a bit daunting beforehand, but I really loved it. The speakers are so knowledgeable and passionate about their chosen topic, and the amount of time dedicated to questions from the audience was great as it really brought in alternative views."
Exeter University student