Beyond astronomy
When I'm not hunting for new planets, I like to do a variety of things on this planet, from flying, scuba diving and playing various sports to hiking, mountain biking and independent travelling. These hobbies have taken me many places around the world but there's so much more to do, try and explore! Finding time for everything is the challenge...
Some fun moments from my travels and hobbies are below.
First dive in the Great Barrier Reef (2006), the first of many dives across Australia, Indonesia, Egypt, and the Canary Islands.
A little Sahara desert exploration with our trusty 4x4, complete with cooking and sleeping kit, and lots and lots of water.
Trekking to Cuidad Perdida (founded ~800 CE) in the Colombian rainforest (2018). I'm standing with Elias, a member of the Kogi tribe and our guide, overlooking the city ruins.
Sunrise from the top of Mount Fuji in Japan (2012) after an overnight hike to the summit.
Sitting in the Grob 115E (Tutor) cockpit that I learned to fly in. I finished my training in the Cessna 152 (civilian) and gained my Private Pilot's License in 2011.
Rock climbing in Austria. Slow and steady...I was certainly not the fastest up the rock face.
A 5-a-side inter-University Air Squadron football competition, which was a lot of fun, despite me looking as though I might murder the ball at this particular moment...
Some fun ridge hiking in the Alps.
A spot of Via Ferrata-esque climbing and traversing in the Lake District (2020). Covid-19 restrictions kept us in the UK but there was still plenty of outdoor fun to be had.
Iceland has so many natural wonders, from beautiful waterfalls and active volcanos to powerful geysers and stunning glaciers.
A 20 km hike in the Lakes, up and over Helvellyn, is one of the best ways to catch up with old friends.
I had the pleasure of meeting Chris Hadfield briefly when I bought his book, which turned out to be a thoroughly enjoyable read.