Rachel Bashforth

That quote, the earliest one I can recollect, is from an episode of Sky at Night, about Halley’s comet. My Dad introduced me to astronomy, through television programs, magazines and shivering in the Trough of Bowland on dark winter nights with a telescope, and I have loved it ever since.

Qualifications

After school, where I took A-level maths, chemistry, physics and… P.E., I studied Chemistry at Durham University and achieved an MChem. After a brief stint in research, followed by an even shorter appearance in retail management, I studied with Northumbira University to obtain QTS.

What I do at work

I worked as a teacher for 9 years before moving to Higher Education and work in Outreach at Lancaster University and as a freelance Science Communicator. I love all aspects of science education, whether that is traditional courses of study to obtain recognised qualifications or alternative programs to inspire and instil wonder. I deliver workshops, roadshows, projects and community sessions across the north west and masterclasses for the NSA.

Break time

I don’t really have much free time, the beauty about working freelance is you can fill your time with your hobbies! So whilst I do spend a lot of time working on STEM initiatives, I also work as an outdoors instructor, leading climbing, archery, axe throwing and watersports sessions. Outside of this, I enjoy competing and coaching athletics and spending time with my family.

Would you go to space?

Once upon a time, I would have jumped at the chance! However, now I am a little older, wiser and with far too much to sacrifice here on planet Earth, I would not take the risk. Despite all our technological advances, space travel is still pretty dangerous! However, I fully support humans in space as there is still so much to be learned and I am excited to see what further discoveries will be made on the ISS, as a result of the Artemis program and into the future.

What’s the best thing about science?

The best thing about science is that it is for everyone! If you have ever wondered ‘why?’, you are a scientist. And science is so varied, there is literally something for everyone. Sports science, cosmetics, construction, music, app development, textiles, medicines, ornithology, energy… as a tiny fraction of what science does - it’s not all stinky labs and white coats!

What’s the best thing about working for the NSA?

I have so many different interests, the best thing about working for the NSA is it brings them all together. Space science takes ALL of the normal science and applies it in a space setting. We are learning new things all the time and it is incredible to see advancements in real time and have access to professionals from a range of roles. I’ve only been in post since August and Ihave met a real astronaut, a radio frequency communications specialist, discussed UK launches with people on the ground and been introduced to the UK Space Industry - a rapidly growing sector of the UK economy. And that’s before we get into the absolute delight that is taking all this exciting material back to my local schools to inspire the next generation of STEM professionals.