Public Speaking
Since retiring from my job as a University lecturer, I have given numerous talks and lectures to groups such as the Royal Aeronautical Society, both at RAeS HQ in London and at local Branches, and the Institute of Physics, London HQ and Branches. I've also spoken at University of the Third Age (U3A) Branches, Cafe Scientifique and Hampstead Scientific Society, and have more talks in the pipeline, in Richmond and Hertfordshire. I'm happy to speak at your organisation, by arrangement. I don't charge a fee, and if I can drive a few miles then I won't require expenses, but engagements further afield (from Hatfield, Hertfordshire) will incur reasonable expenses. Talks are primarily aimed at an adult audience, but are suitable for children aged 12 upwards. I can also do talks for younger audiences such as Beavers, Cubs and Scouts, and youth groups such as Air Cadets. Talks for adult audiences typically last an hour and 20 minutes, plus time for questions, but can be adjusted to suit.
I can speak on a variety of subjects:
- How an Aeroplane REALLY Flies. My most popular lecture. People who aren't pilots might think of flying an aeroplane as like driving a car, but with an extra dimension. But the controls in a car are decoupled - turning the steering wheel doesn't normally affect the speed, and the throttle and brake don't affect the direction of the car. In an aeroplane, all the controls are coupled, and each control has a primary and secondary effect. In addition, aerodynamicists have a very different approach to the way an aeroplane flies from the way pilots see it. Surprisingly, the way lift is produced is taught incorrectly in most schools (and flying schools), and I give an alternative approach. I throw in a bit of weather and explain how we avoid bumping into each other in flight. This lecture explains, in simple terms, how an aeroplane is flown, from a pilot's perspective.
- Space Vehicles. Space has always fascinated most of us, and here I explain the different types of space vehicles, from satellites to launch rockets. It then focuses on the different types of propulsion available, and I explain how designers choose the best one.
- Aerial Photography. This talk comes in two versions. One is aimed at camera clubs and societies, and starts with how to get into an aircraft with your camera, and the costs involved (from £500 an hour down to nothing at all). I explain the limitations and some essential tips on equipment and preparation. Then I explain the special techniques needed to get the best from your photographs. Of course, there are plenty of examples along the way (see my gallery for some). For general audiences, I have a very different version, explaining the amazing views and possibilities that an extra dimension offers. This version avoids technical detail, and focuses on lots of examples, including some video of landing at the Isle of Wight in a rather unusual aircraft. Suitable for all ages.
- Ultra-lightweight aircraft. Smaller and lighter than light aircraft such as Cessnas and Pipers, there is a whole class of other aircraft, from hang gliders to microlights. They provide a very different type of flying, often at much lower cost than mainstream light aviation. I've flown many of these types, and explain the different classes, licensing and rules that apply to them.
- Other aerospace and flying-related topics. Why not suggest something related to the above that would be interesting and appropriate to your audience? If I feel I can do it justice, I'll probably agree.
My name was mentioned in Pilot magazine, May 2025, after I gave a talk to the YES (Youth Education Scheme) conference at Old Warden a few weeks earlier about the Pilot Studies degres at the University of Hertfordshire and my views on cheaper flying.
You can see the video of a lecture I gave at the Royal Aeronautical Society HQ in London here.
I found a brilliant lecture on how wings actually produce lift, and how what most of us are taught (and some of us still teach!) is wrong, on YouTube.
