Free online event | Thursday 30 April 2026
7.00pm GMT | 2.00pm EST | 11.00am PST
From ancient star traditions to cutting-edge space research, astronomy has always reflected humanity’s desire to understand the universe. Stargazing through time explores this sweeping story, tracing how skywatching has evolved from early cultural observations to the precise, technology-driven science we know today. The webinar examines how civilisations across the world - whether charting planetary cycles, building observatories, or interpreting celestial events - have contributed to a shared foundation of astronomical knowledge.
We then move into the present, highlighting the remarkable global diversity of modern astronomy. From the preservation of historical observatories in Central Asia to advanced optical and radio telescopes in East Asia and Europe, today’s research landscape blends tradition with innovation. These examples illuminate the shift from naked-eye observations to high-resolution imaging, space-based instruments, and multidisciplinary approaches that allow astronomers to map galaxies, study dark matter, and understand the life cycles of stars.
Finally, the webinar looks ahead to the future of astronomy - an era defined by massive radio arrays, next-generation space telescopes, artificial intelligence, and international research collaboration. We’ll discuss how future observatories, technologies, and educational initiatives will expand our ability to probe the universe, from exoplanet atmospheres to the earliest moments after the Big Bang. Whether you are fascinated by humanity’s oldest scientific practice or excited by the discoveries still to come, this webinar offers an inspiring, big-picture exploration of how astronomy continues to shape - and reshape - our cosmic perspective.
Joined by astronomy expert Colin Stuart, this webinar offers an inspiring, big-picture journey through the evolution of astronomy - perfect for anyone captivated by humanity’s oldest scientific pursuit or excited by the discoveries yet to come.
Meet the expert
Colin Stuart FRAS
Colin is a multi-award-winning astronomy author and speaker who has talked to over half a million people about the universe.
His twenty books have sold more than 400,000 copies worldwide and been translated into 24 languages. He's also written over 250 popular science articles for publications including The Guardian, New Scientist, The Wall Street Journal and European Space Agency.
As well as writing a book with the astronaut Tim Peake, the asteroid (15347) Colinstuart is named after him in recognition of his efforts to popularise astronomy. A fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society, Colin has talked about space on Sky News, BBC News and Radio 5Live.
He also runs an online astronomy club at colinstuart.substack.com
