Bethany Rigby

The Outer Hebrides’ relationship with astronomy, Bethany Rigby says, “embodies humanity’s changing view of our place within the universe”. The designer, researcher and writer, above, is now the creator of Outer Hebrides // Outer Space, a new research project that explores our islands’ astronomical significance, from the Neolithic Age of celestial observation to present day plans for Spaceport 1, the UK’s first vertical satellite launch site. The project began during an Island Going residency in June 2019 and Bethany is set to exhibit her work at An Lanntair later in 2021. She also knows some fascinating facts about shooting stars and Scottish place names on Mars. The episode is hosted by Hebridean Dark Skies Festival programmer Andrew Eaton-Lewis.  The sound was mixed by Hamish Brown. Campfire Conversations is presented in association with The Scotsman. To find out more about the Hebridean Dark Skies Festival, visit www.lanntair.com/darkskies.