Thursday 21 July 2011

Private astronaut awarded honorary degree by Queen Mary, University of London

Private astronaut Richard Garriott will be presented with a Doctorate of Science for his work promoting the importance of science, mathematics and space exploration with Queen Mary, University of London, on Thursday 21 July 2011.

British-born Dr Garriott has explored the wreck of the Titanic, hunted meteors in Antarctica and in 2008 realised his lifelong dream of travelling in a space shuttle to the International Space Station. His support for Queen Mary’s outreach programmes in local schools, and help in launching inspiring competitions have captured imaginations and encouraged children to study science at school and university.

The award-winning computer game developer is also an entrepreneur, philanthropist, adventure traveller and space explorer, whose Ultima series of role-playing games remains one of the most successful franchises in gaming history.

Professor McOwan, Dean for Taught Programmes in the Faculty of Science and Engineering, commented: “Richard’s spectacular life story, storming from video games pioneer to explorer, scientist and space entrepreneur is the stuff of modern-day legend. While changing the world around us Richard has also been an outstanding champion in helping us to inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers here in London and globally. We are delighted that his talents and drive can be recognised by his award of a DSc from Queen Mary.”

On receiving his award, Dr Garriott commented: “Being an early pioneer of the computer games industry has come with many benefits, but academic involvement was not one of them. Working with Queen Mary over the last few years to help develop academic outreach to UK students has been a singular joy; it has allowed me to contribute academically in ways I missed out on in the early days of the industry. It will be a personal highlight of my life, to receive an honorary degree from Queen Mary - it will fill in a notable gap in my personal story."

Richard’s most recent collaboration with Queen Mary, University of London, Venture Thinking and GovEd was to create Our Space – a special online video gallery of some of Richard’s favourite moments in space, which are available online here: www.our-space.org

Allan Clements, Manager of the UK Space education office added: “These wonderful space videos are making a major contribution to enriching the teaching and learning of STEM subjects. Locating them within the National STEM Centre’s e-library will increase the number of teachers using them throughout the UK.”

Ends