“I presented a Radio Documentary for the BBC World Service,” is not something I ever thought I would say. It’s definitely not something I had thought to aspire to. But it was an incredible opportunity, and I’m truly honoured to have been entrusted with it. Looking back at my university years – and even earlier – I was the person who would do anything to avoid public speaking. It’s fascinating to see how much that has changed. These days, speaking is a significant part of my photography business, and I enjoy it even though I still get nervous, and right before getting on stage for an event, I will question my choices.

The program focuses on a subject close to my heart: the night sky and the importance of preserving darkness. I’ve often reflected on ways I could contribute to raising awareness about light pollution, its impact, and how we can reduce it. Being invited to present this documentary was an incredible opportunity.

A presenter is the voice of the radio show, bringing stories to life for the audience. I recorded some of the program on location at Bow Lake and the rest at 6 Degrees Sound and Music recording studio in Calgary. At the studio, I worked with an amazing audio engineer and the documentary producer, Sasha Edye-Linder. Being on location at Bow Lake for a portion of the recording brought a sense of connection to the subject.

Licence to Operate a Space Object” is available for streaming on The Documentary Podcast and will stream live on the BBC World Service.

I hope you enjoy the program!

 

Stories and Contributions to the program:

Astronomer Radmila Topalovic

Astronomy Professor and Knowledge hold of the Euahlayi Nation, Ghillar

Behavioural Ecologist Cecilia Nilsson

Lighting Project Manager at the Sea Turtle Conservancy Rachel Tighe

Urbanist, Strategist, Curator, and Writer, Sarah Ichioka

Aurora Holidays Owner and CEO Tiina Salonen