This week we are joined by Dr Harriet Palfreyman. Dr Palfreyman is a Lecturer in Science Communication, and is also the Deputy Programme Director for the MSc in Science and Health Communication. We had a great conversation discussing her research and the current state of science communication.

The Monday Morning Digest Ep. 8 - Dr Harriet Palfreyman

Sedgwick Museum Director Liz Hide explores how Darwin's specimens don't just tell us about the development of his geological theories, but also give us a glimpse into nineteenth-century resource extraction and global economic networks.

Darwin's Chalcopyrite

Sidereus Nuncius (Latin for The Starry Messenger), Galileo Galilei’s groundbreaking book published in 1610, revealed his revolutionary astronomical discoveries through the telescope for the first time. These findings challenged the long-held belief in the Earth’s centrality in the universe, eventually leading to Galileo’s infamous trial, where he was forced, after a long resistance, to deny all his discoveries.

This short musical film is a modern homage to Galileo’s pioneering work, celebrating human curiosity, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of truth. Through an original orchestral piece that I wrote, directed, and performed, the film blends music, narrative, and visuals to explore the life and legacy of one of history’s most iconic figures. With the help of advanced AI tools, I’ve crafted a story that intertwines historical fact, poetic lyricism, and cinematic artistry.

At its heart, this project pays tribute to the courage it takes to question the established order, to confront fear with reason, and to stand firm in the face of overwhelming resistance. Galileo’s journey—his groundbreaking discoveries, his trial, and his enduring faith in intellect—resonates as a timeless testament to the human spirit’s capacity to seek and embrace the unknown.

The lyrics, infused with Galileo’s passion and defiance, illuminate the struggles and triumphs of a mind that dared to reach for the stars. Interwoven throughout the film are his historic words, reflecting the anguish of his trial and the brilliance of his scientific insights. Phrases like “The Bible shows the way to go to heaven, not the way the heavens go” and “And yet it moves” echo his indomitable belief in observation and reason as pathways to truth.

Through its orchestral music and visuals, The Starry Messenger invites audiences to reflect on the interplay between faith and doubt, fear and discovery, and the eternal dialogue between science and philosophy. 
Yazan Al Hajari
Writer, Director, Performer

The Starry Messenger

The provided Podcast comprises biographical information and an analysis of Pierre-Simon Laplace's contributions to theoretical physics and mathematics, specifically exploring the relevance of his work—including his concepts of determinism and probability, and mathematical tools like the Laplace transform—to modern quantum technology. The Podcast details how Laplace's ideas, though developed before the advent of quantum mechanics, are foundational to current quantum computing, cryptography, and quantum field theory. His interdisciplinary approach, bridging mathematics, physics, and philosophy, is highlighted as a model for contemporary scientific collaboration. The analysis also contrasts Laplace's deterministic worldview with the probabilistic nature of quantum mechanics, examining the ongoing influence of his mathematical methods on quantum algorithms and simulations.

Pierre-Simon Laplace

Pierre-Simon Laplace's Enduring Legacy in Quantum Technology

Talking about collections, objects and a touch of cutting-edge research. Whoosh.

The AI VIPs page is a tribute to those pioneers—from the early architects like Alan Turing and John McCarthy, who laid the groundwork for AI, to the modern-day innovators who continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible.

Composer, Music producer, Film maker, artist

New tracks tagged #historyofscience