Dr Simeon Barber is a planetary science specialist, based at the Centre for Earth, Planetary, Space & Astronomical Research (CEPSAR) at the Open University. He is an experienced project manager, currently responsible for the UK's "Ptolemy" instrument that will land on and study a comet as part of the European Space Agency's Rosetta mission in 2014.
Sim chaired "UK goes to the Planets" from 2006-8, the consortium of academic, industry, educational and outreach experts that works to raise awareness and understanding of UK involvement in planetary science and space exploration. He works to exchange knowledge and capabilities between academia and industry, developing opportunities for each sector.
Sim is particularly interested in combining new technologies and contemporary scientific research to produce interactive educational and outreach resources. He enjoys developing innovative activities to make science and technology accessible to new audiences. Recent successes include events at the RHS Tatton Park Flower show, at Xscape leisure complex in Milton Keynes and ongoing projects with the Space Signpost.