Gareth Dorrian and Ian Whittaker

Gareth Dorrian: I graduated from the University of Wales, Aberystwyth, in 2002 with a BSc. in Physics with Planetary and Space Physics. I then went on to complete a Masters Degree in Space Science, at University College London. Finally I graduated with a PhD from Aberystwyth University (name changed between undergrad & PhD). I studied large scale structure in the Solar Wind as my thesis topic. Since then I have held research positions in the fields of Solar Physics, Space Science, and Geomagnetism. Currently I study the interaction between the Ionosphere and the neutral atmosphere, and ionospheric radio propagation. Ian Whittaker: I completed my PhD in 2010 looking at the interaction of the Sun with the upper atmosphere of Venus. Since then I have held six postdoctoral contracts, covering medical imaging, solar physics, the Earth's radiation belts, lightning in tropical cyclones, X-ray astronomy, and X-ray observations of the Earth's magnetopause. I currently teach at Nottingham Trent University, where I am responsible for astrophysics lectures, laboratory supervision, tutorials and student projects. I am very strongly interested in space science outreach, encouraging students and the public to take an interest in how our planet interacts with the solar system.

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4 incredible astronomical discoveries from ancient Greece

Impact

From Mars to asteroids, all the space missions to look forward to in 2020