Join our expert panel as they explore the scientific, economic, ethical and societal implications of establishing a permanent human presence

Join the expert panel as they explore the scientific, economic, ethical and societal implications of establishing a permanent human presence beyond Earth. Bringing together diverse perspectives, the discussion will examine the opportunities and challenges of lunar settlement, from advancing exploration and securing humanity’s future to questions of governance, sustainability and who should have access to life beyond our planet. The Panel aims to consider not only whether we can live on the Moon, but whether we should.

This event will be led by St Cross Fellow Professor Neil Bowles (chair), with Professor Anu Ojha OBE (UK Space Agency), Professor Ilan Kelman (University College, London), Dr Alessandra Marino (The Open University, and Dr Tony Milligan (University of Sheffield), as part of the college's themed programme this autumn.

Designed for a curious, non-specialist audience, the events will provide plenty of opportunity to put your own questions to our speakers.

Other events in the programme:

Tuesday 20 October 2026: How the Earth works (https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/how-the-earth-works-tickets-2000029258351?aff=oddtdtcreator)

Tuesday 3 November: What causes climate change? (https://www.eventbrite.com/e/what-causes-climate-change-tickets-2001178705378?aff=oddtdtcreator)

Tuesday 17 November: The race for critical metals: is there a better way? (https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/the-race-for-critical-metals-is-there-a-better-way-tickets-2001182913966?aff=oddtdtcreator)

For more information about St Cross College please visit: https://stx.web.ox.ac.uk/ (https://stx.web.ox.ac.uk/)

You can view our calendar of events here: https://stx.web.ox.ac.uk/events (https://stx.web.ox.ac.uk/events)

To find out more about how you can support St Cross College please visit: https://stx.web.ox.ac.uk/supporters (https://stx.web.ox.ac.uk/supporters)

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