Are We Alone? JWST, Exoplanets and the Royal Institution Christmas Lectures | Guardian Science Weekly

Science Weekly delves into the Royal Institution Christmas Lectures featuring space scientist Dame Maggie Aderin Pocock and Guardian science correspondent Nicola Davis. The discussion spans the James Webb Space Telescope’s discoveries, the growing field of exoplanets, and questions about life beyond Earth, alongside reflections on the private sector in space and how exploration should benefit all of humanity. The episode also highlights the cultural and personal allure of stargazing during long winter nights.

Overview

The Guardian's Science Weekly episode centers on the Royal Institution Christmas Lectures, marking the 200th anniversary of the event, with Dame Maggie Aderin Pocock and Nicola Davis exploring humanity's place in the cosmos. The hosts discuss how space instruments, especially the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), are transforming our understanding of the universe, the formation of galaxies, and the search for exoplanets. The conversation also touches on Maggie's hands-on experience with space instrumentation, her teaching role, and the broader ethics and responsibilities of space science.

"Space belongs to everyone" - Maggie Aderin Pocock

JWST, Exoplanets, and Time Machines

The episode delves into JWST’s capabilities as a time machine, enabling observations of distant, early galaxies and exoplanets around other stars. Nicola Davis emphasizes how JWST’s infrared capabilities reveal details inaccessible to earlier telescopes, challenging previous assumptions about galaxy growth and the prevalence of life-supporting planets. The discussion also reflects on how exoplanet studies fascinate space scientists and the public alike, highlighting Maggie’s enthusiasm for human space exploration and the potential for future journeys beyond our planet.

"The James Webb Space Telescope can work as a time machine" - Nicola Davis

Space Policy, Regulation, and the Private Sector

The conversation shifts to the regulatory and governance frameworks that will shape private spaceflight and commercial space ventures. Maggie argues that oversight and thoughtful legislation are essential as commercial actors enter space, to prevent a Wild West scenario and ensure responsible and environmentally mindful exploration that benefits all of humanity. The episode acknowledges both the opportunities and risks of a more crowded near-Earth space environment and calls for policies that balance innovation with safety and planetary stewardship.

"regulation, it's actually really important" - Maggie Aderin Pocock

Stargazing, Culture, and the Human Perspective

Towards the end, the hosts reflect on the cultural resonance of space, the nativity story, and the value of looking up at the night sky. They share personal memories of stargazing, the Geminid meteor shower, and the simple joy of observing the cosmos from dark, quiet places. The episode underscores space as a shared heritage across cultures, urging inclusive access to astronomical knowledge and experiences for diverse audiences.

"I would rather stay down here on earth and gaze admiringly upwards than head out there myself" - Nicola Davis