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Professor Ian Crawford appointed to European Space Agency’s advisory committee on Human Spaceflight

Professor Crawford's international reputation in space exploration and lunar research is recognised by his appointment to a key ESA advisory group.

Professor Ian Crawford, Professor of Planetary Science and Astrobiology in the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences at Birkbeck, has been appointed to ESA's Human Spaceflight and Exploration Science Advisory Committee (HESAC). This is the senior ESA advisory body on all matters concerning the scientific exploitation of ESA's human spaceflight and exploration programmes, including scientific utilisation of the International Space Station, microgravity research, and plans for the future human exploration of the Moon and Mars. The appointment will be for four years and recognises Professor Crawford's international reputation in space exploration research, especially in the field of lunar exploration.

Commenting on his appointment, Professor Crawford said: 'I have long-believed that space exploration confers significant scientific, social and cultural benefits on countries that participate in it, and I am delighted to have this opportunity to help advance Europe's involvement in this exciting field of human activity.'

Further information on Professor Crawford's views on the benefits of space exploration can be found on the 'Case for Space' website that he maintains.

Professor Crawford teaches on several courses in astronomy and astrobiology.

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