"Watching the Earth Go By: Pints, Pixels, and Planet Stories, What Can We Really See from Space?"

"Watching the Earth Go By: Pints, Pixels, and Planet Stories, What Can We Really See from Space?"
With Dhritiraj Sengupta

Summary
From hundreds of kilometres above us, satellites capture stories unfolding on Earth, but what do those stories reveal? 

In this talk, we’ll take a journey from space to street, showing how satellite data, what we call Earth Observation helps us understand the ever changing planet Earth in ways that would have seemed unimaginable not long ago.

We’ll explore how satellites reveal major changes on our planet from shifting coastlines and invisible pollution to ship emission trails across the oceans. We’ll also see how Earth observation supports the rail sector by spotting land subsidence, mapping flood risks, and identifying where solar energy can thrive. 

This talk is for anyone whether you’re simply curious, love a good map, or just enjoy learning something new over a pint.

Bio
Dhritiraj is an Earth Observation Scientist with a Ph.D. in Physical Geography from East China Normal University, China, where he graduated in 2020. He specialises in Earth Science research and the application of geoinformatics in urban planning and land use change analysis. With over 3.5 years of post-doctoral research experience in China and the UK, he has honed my skills in using Earth Observation (EO) data for shoreline change mapping.

Currently, he is contributing to three European Space Agency (ESA) funded projects at GMV focusing on the intersection of Earth Observation (EO) with waterborne diseases, ship emissions, solar power generation etc.

His research interests extend to exploring the impact of coastal land reclamation, particularly in China, and its implications for climate change adaptation and urban resilience along Southeast Asian coasts, and he is passionate about integrating various elements of coastal zone management into Marine Spatial Planning (MSP) and policy, leveraging EO and integrated GIS tools. He has extensive experience utilising both optical and radar remote sensing techniques to map long-term coastal changes, including land use, land subsidence, vegetation, and surface water.

In addition to his academic research, he actively participates in international collaborations and partnerships. He serves as a steering committee member of the International Geographical Union's Commission on Coastal Systems (igu-coast.org) and is a Fellow of Future Earth Coasts (https://www.futureearthcoasts.org/fellows/). He is also part of the management team for GEO AquaWatch and a UK-JAPAN RENKEI fellow.

Venue:
Big Penny
1 Priestley Way,
London
E17 6AL


Event Running Time:
(we recommend arriving at 6:30pm if you're eating, and 7pm if drinks only)
Doors from 6pm
Introduction: 7:25pm
Lecture: 7:30pm
Q&A: 8:10pm

Food:
If you plan on eating at the venue, we recommend arriving as early as possible so the kitchen can get your order out before the talk starts.

FAQs:

What is Pints of Knowledge?

Pints of Knowledge is a series of public talks where experts, researchers, and big thinkers share fascinating ideas all in the relaxed setting of a pub. We bring brilliant minds and curious audiences together over a pint, covering topics from science and politics to history, art, and beyond.

What happens at Pints of Knowledge?

At each Pints of Knowledge event, you’ll hear engaging talks (approx. 40 minutes) from expert speakers on fascinating topics — followed by an audience Q&A (approx. 20 minutes). The vibe is informal and social, set in a pub where you can grab a drink, meet interesting people, and enjoy big ideas in a relaxed setting.

What if I don't drink alcohol?

No problem at all! Pints of Knowledge is all about the ideas and the community, not the drinks. You’re welcome to enjoy a soft drink, coffee, or whatever you prefer. The focus is on creating a relaxed, social atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable.

Can I attend without a ticket?

Tickets must be purchased online prior to the event. With our limited capacity at each venue we can't let people in without a ticket.

Is there food available?

Yes, there is always the option to purchase food at our events.

Can I get my ticket refunded?

We issue full ticket refunds if you have requested 7 days before the event. Any requests after will be at the discretion of the event organiser.

Can I get my ticket exchanged?

We issue full ticket exchanges if you have requested 7 days before the event. Any requests after will be at the discretion of the event organiser.

Is the event pet friendly?

Yes, we allow pets to attend but reserve the right to request their removal if they are disruptive.