Today was one of our special Conister Rocks biographical programmes, where we share music and memories with some of the Island's most interesting residents. Christy was joined this afternoon by the Island's very own 'starman' Howard Parkin, an Onchan resident with his sights firmly set on the Dark Skies.
Howard’s life seems to lead him on adventures at every turn – from live links with astronauts on the International Space Station, to the time when, in an attempt to have a fairly laid back family holiday, he actually found himself caught up in the mourning of notorious political figure Fidel Castro!
But today, we settled back and listened in awe as he talked about the universe, about other life forms, light pollution and - of course - the Origins of Howard himself! With music ranging from the The Eagles to King Crimson, it was a fascinating hour and well worth listening back, which you can do for the next 7 days by clicking this link.
And don't forget to keep an eye on the 2018 Year of Our Island events, which started with various astronomical events including two sold events with Howard and the IOM Astronomical Society.
Below, watch a clip from the show, in which Howard told us about the time Patrick Moore phoned home..
