Pupils from Ysgol Hafan y Môr have explored the wonders of our Universe and beyond with the Dragon LNG Darwin Experience and guest presenter Dr Mark Smith, a theoretical nuclear physicist with a passion for astronomy.

From the Big Bang to present day, pupils this week learnt about the formation of our solar system, recent discoveries and what would happen if you went in to a black hole.

Following a cosmic quiz to test their new knowledge pupils built models of the solar system and used a planetary address chart to arrange the planets into their positions on a chosen date. Mark, who has recently won ‘Outstanding Existing STEM Ambassador’ in the STEM Inspiration Awards from STEM Learning, then answered all of their questions on subjects such as spaghettification and exoplanets.

Samantha Williams, manager of the Darwin Experience said: “It is amazing to have someone of Mark’s calibre involved in our sessions with local schools, his enthusiasm for STEM and his in-depth knowledge is an inspiration to all of the pupils he works with. We would like to congratulate him on his well-deserved award which will be officially presented to him at the House of Lords next week.”