Discoveries and Innovations in South Kensington: February Highlights

From the extraordinary cultural and educational institutions in South Kensington, we have put together some recent highlights of exciting discoveries, research and news from the London's home of arts and science. Here are some highlights from February:

• Imperial-built instrument jets off to NASA ahead of major solar wind mission: An instrument developed by Imperial physicists, known as MAG, is set to join NASA’s Interstellar Mapping and Acceleration Probe (IMAP) mission. This instrument, a magnetometer, will play a crucial role in studying the solar wind upon the spacecraft's launch in 2025. MAG, built over two years, will help observe and map the Sun’s heliosphere and its interactions with the interstellar medium, aiding in understanding radiation and space environments within the inner solar system
• Imperial's Sustainability Efforts: Imperial College London has introduced the Imperial Zero Index, a framework designed to evaluate energy industry collaborators' efforts toward achieving net-zero goals annually. With a commitment to disengage from partnerships with companies scoring poorly against its criteria, the university emphasizes engagement with committed partners dedicated to decarbonization. This initiative aims to accelerate the energy transition and promote transparency and accountability in sustainability efforts.
• GlobalSeaweed-SUPERSTAR Project: Led by Professor Elizabeth Cottier-Cook and an international team of scientists at the Natural History Museum has launched the GlobalSeaweed-SUPERSTAR project. This initiative seeks to protect and restore seaweed stocks threatened by climate change, disease, and invasive species. Through experimental research, policy development, and public outreach, the project aims to raise awareness and develop strategies for safeguarding seaweed habitats while supporting sustainable growth in the seaweed industry.
• Groundbreaking Performance Laboratory at the Royal College of Music: The Royal College of Music (RCM) has unveiled a pioneering performance simulation facility that combines state-of-the-art acoustic technology with visual graphics engines. This innovative space will support the training of RCM student musicians and be available for commercial hire, pushing the boundaries of performance training and simulation.
• Global research network to combat deadly Strep A infections: Imperial College London and the University of California San Diego lead the newly launched iSpy Network (Immunity to Streptococcus pyogenes), which aims to tackle serious group A streptococcal (Strep A) bacterial infections, responsible for significant mortality, particularly among children. With funding from the Leducq Foundation, the network brings together experts from 11 countries to investigate Strep A immunity and develop effective vaccines.