Legendary Queen guitarist and Fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society (RAS) Sir Brian May launched his new book with RAS Council member Professor Derek Ward-Thompson last week.
The pair, along with fellow co-creator J-P Metsavainio – a visual artist and astrophotographer – welcomed more than 150 guests to a launch event for Islands in Infinity: Galaxies 3-D at the Museum of Brands in Notting Hill, London on Thursday 13 November.
Also in attendance were RAS Executive Director Ian Russell and Head of Operations Audie Muller.
RAS Councillor Professor Derek Ward-Thompson co-created the book with Sir Brian May and J-P Metsavainio.
Audie Muller
Also in attendance were RAS Executive Director Ian Russell (left) and Head of Operations Audie Muller (right), both pictured with Sir Brian.
Audie Muller
Wearing 3-D glasses, guests enjoyed a mesmerising journey through the cosmos as they watched galaxies leap off the screen, before the evening concluded with a celebratory reception featuring space-themed cocktails.
Sir Brian said: “For the very first time, readers will be able to enjoy stereoscopic renderings of galaxies previously only seen as flat ‘mono’ images.
“And this, coupled with a text from one of the world’s experts on the evolution of galaxies, will give a uniquely new insight into the universe as it is now perceived.
“Moreover, it’s an account understandable and enjoyable by anyone interested in the biggest subject in the universe – not just astro experts.”
Islands in Infinity: Galaxies 3-D, by Brian May, Derek Ward-Thompson and J-P Metsavainio, published by the London Stereoscopic Company, is available to buy at https://shop.londonstereo.com.