麻豆约拍

Adam Walton hears the results of the latest survey of distant galaxies, which follows years of number crunching by astronomers at Cardiff University.

The Hershel Space Observatory was launched in 2009 by the European Space Agency and surveyed distant stars in the infrared and sub-millimetre wavebands. Following the completion of its mission in 2013, the massive amount of data has been analysed and given us new, detailed, insights into distant galaxies, far beyond those which can be gained using traditional optical telescopes. Dr Loretta Dunne of Cardiff University's School of Physics and Astronomy explains the findings of the Herschel ATLAS survey and how the results will provide a major resource for astronomers for decades to come.

Cardiff based astronomer and broadcaster Dr Chris North explains the background to the Herschel mission and also looks ahead to space missions in the next twelve months.

Adam also talks to Allan Trow of Dark Sky Wales, about the growing interest in preserving our dark sky sites, and limiting light pollution, to enable more people to enjoy the wonders of the night sky.