"How Radio Telescopes See What Our Eyes Can't"

"How Radio Telescopes See What Our Eyes Can't"
with Dr. Marcin Glowacki

When most people picture astronomy, they picture the images — the swirling galaxies, the nebulae, the pale blue dot. But those are just what our eyes, and instruments built to mimic them, can detect. Radio telescopes see something else entirely.

By tuning into radio waves rather than visible light, astronomers can probe some of the most extreme and mysterious phenomena in the universe from vast clouds of gas that would otherwise be completely invisible, to fast radio bursts, events so bright and so brief they last just milliseconds and whose origins we still don't fully understand.

This talk is a tour of what radio astronomy actually looks like, what it has already revealed about our galaxy and beyond, and what it might be about to find next.

Bio
Dr Marcin Glowacki is an astronomer at the University of Edinburgh, where he works with next-generation radio telescopes and large-scale galaxy simulations. His research focuses on how galaxies evolve over time, tracking their gas content and investigating fast radio bursts, some of the most energetic and puzzling events ever detected in the universe.

Venue:
Drygate Brewery
85 Drygate, Glasgow
G4 0UT


Event Running Time:
Doors 4pm
Introduction: 4:25pm
Lecture: 4:30pm
Q&A: 5:15pm
Mix & mingle with other attendees 5:25pm
Wrap up 5:45pm

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.

FAQ

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 (about 40 minutes) from expert speakers on fascinating topics — followed by audience Q&A. 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.

Is the event dog friendly?

Yes, Pints of Knowledge at Drygate is dog friendly. We request that dogs are on a leash and well behaved. If there's persistent disturbance you will be asked to leave.