Join internationally recognised astronomer Dr. Samantha Lawler for a fascinating public talk exploring what happens when modern space ambition meets the realities of physics — and the fallout can land closer to home than you’d think. In Astronomy vs. the Billionaire Space Race, Dr. Lawler shares extraordinary real-world stories of space debris turning up on farmland near her home in Saskatchewan, Canada — including what it’s like when silent SpaceX representatives arrive in a rented truck, only to be met by an astronomer and local journalists. Along the way, you'll hear what the rapid rise of private satellite launches means for: International law and responsibility The future operation of satellites in Low Earth Orbit Atmospheric pollution And the long-term future of astronomy and dark skies This event is part of the Beatrice Hill Tinsley Lecture Tour, celebrating the life and legacy of groundbreaking New Zealand astronomer Beatrice Hill Tinsley (1941–1981), whose work transformed how we understand galaxies and an evolving universe. About the speaker Dr. Samantha Lawler is a professor of astronomy at the University of Regina (Canada). Her work on the Kuiper Belt and satellite pollution has been featured widely in international media. Presented by / organiser RASNZ Lecture Trust Hosted by Stewart Island Promotion Association

Find tickets & information for Astronomy vs The billionaire space race. happening at Links Road, Invercargill, New Zealand, Invercargill, SO on Sat, 28 Feb, 2026 at 09:00 am NZDT. Register or Buy Tickets, Price information.