Join us for a evening with astronomer Tom Kerss F.R.A.S. as he takes us on a journey around our planet Earth

In a few short decades, the science of discovering extrasolar planets - worlds in other star systems - has evolved from infancy to become a headline-grabbing field of discovery, with astronomers pushing the boundaries of what was once thought to be impossible. Groundbreaking missions such as the James Webb Space Telescope are probing the possibility of life on other worlds across the Galaxy. Yet, with potentially billions of habitable worlds in the Milky Way, we still can't definitely prove that we're not alone.

Why is this question so difficult to answer? How are modern missions helping to solve it? What makes our planet so unique? In connection with Gaia, this special talk about our astonishing home planet and the search for other Earths will take you on a journey through one of the biggest mysteries in modern science.

This event will be 90 minutes long. The first half will be a visual presentation by Tom, followed by a 15 minute interval For the second half Tom will be using Luke Jerram's beautiful Gaia installation to talk about Earth's unique qualities and the preciousness as a way to develop sentiment for conservation and climate concern. Ticket holders are invited to follow Tom around the nave to view Gaia on all sides (apart from the North Pole!).

Please note that there will not be any traditional seating for this event to allow attendees to view Gaia, those attending are invited to sit on the floor or stand during this presentation. Please feel free to bring along a blanket, cushion or camping chair.

Tom Kerss is an astronomer, author and consultant who specialises in the rewarding task of connecting people to their shared universe. He has written numerous best-selling books about the night sky for both adults and children, including Children's Picture Atlas of the Stars, Diamonds Everywhere, Northern Lights: The Definitive Guide to Auroras. He has formerly worked at the Royal Observatory in London, and is Hurtigruten's Chief Aurora Chaser in Norway, travelling to the cold climes of the Arctic in winter to hunt down nature's most spellbinding skybound phenomenon. A resolute stargazer and experienced communicator, Tom now shares his passion for the stars with people all over the world, and is often featured in major media offering insights about the latest developments in space. He loves nothing more than to seek out the darkest and most beautiful skies on Earth. Tom's latest book, Unknown Universe, presents the astonishing images and findings from the first years of the James Webb Space Telescope mission. Find out more about Tom's projects at tomkerss.co.uk