Talk: Imaging Black Holes

This fascinating talk explores how the Event Horizon Telescope, a global network of radio telescopes, captured the first-ever image of a supermassive black hole at the centre of galaxy M87. Learn what the famous image really shows, why it appears as it does, and how scientists used cutting-edge machine learning techniques to reconstruct it from incomplete data.

The talk will be delivered by Georgia Richardson, a Machine Learning engineer specialising in computer vision, with an academic background in astrophysics. She completed an MSc in Astrophysics at Durham University, focusing on supermassive black hole variability, and has worked with the Max Planck Institute for Astrophysics and the European Space Agency.

Following the presentation, there will be a tea break offering the chance to meet and chat with members. Weather permitting, an observing session will take place in the field behind the hall, along with a telescope surgery indoors for anyone seeking advice or wishing to showcase their equipment.

This event is open to everyone, including complete beginners. Visitors under 18 may attend free but must be accompanied by an adult.

Attendees are advised to dress appropriately for the weather, especially if taking part in outdoor observing.