A full scale model of the ExoMars rover which is set to search for life on Mars in 2021 has been named after a pioneering Aberystwyth University space roboticist.

Barnes has been named after the late Professor Dave Barnes who initiated Aberystwyth University’s involvement with the European Space Agency / Roscosmos mission to Mars.

Professor Barnes, who died suddenly in 2014, was also a leading member of the team that developed and built the innovative Beagle2 lander that formed part of the 2003 Mars Express mission.

Built by Stephen Fearn and Dr Matt Gunn from the Department of Physics, the Aberystwyth replica was unveiled by Sue Horne MBE, Head of Space Exploration for the UK Space Agency, and Dr Helen Miles from Aberystwyth University on Friday 29 June 2018, at a celebration of the work of Aberystwyth space scientists and solar physicists.

The Barnes ExoMars Rover will be used to promote the ESA/Roscosmos mission which is due to launch in 2020.

Using cameras and emulated instruments, the interactive model will also explain some of the science the mission’s actual rover will perform once it has landed on Mars.

Dr Helen Miles from the Department of Computer Science at Aberystwyth University has been instrumental in designing many of Aberystwyth’s ExoMars outreach activities.

Dr Miles said: “Deciding to name our full size model after Professor Dave Barnes was a poignant moment for us, but one very much in keeping with a tradition that has developed over the years. Several prototype rovers have been built as we prepare for the mission, and all have names starting with ‘B’.

“There are several prototype rovers in existence, Bridget, Brian and Bruno developed by Airbus, and here at Aberystwyth we have been working with a miniature half scale prototype that we have called Blodwen. So Barnes fitted perfectly.”

Dr Helen Miles developed a virtual model to produce simulated camera images from the rover, which is being used by engineers building the mission’s actual rover for the mission.

The ESA/Roscosmos ExoMars Rover is being developed by Thales Alenia Space and built by Airbus Defence and Space in Stevenage.

Professor Barnes’ work on ExoMars included the development of the rover’s colour swatch, which was inspired by medieval stained glass.

Designed to withstand the very high levels of ultraviolet light on Mars which causes colours to fade quickly, the swatch will be used to calibrate the mission’s camera and spectrometer systems to ensure colours are recorded accurately.

Professor Barnes’s work has been progressed by the space robotics team at Aberystwyth University, led by Dr Matt Gunn.

Dr Gunn is a member of three international instrument teams on the ExoMars mission;

• PanCam, a system of three scientific cameras for digital terrain mapping and is led by the Mullard Space Science Laboratory at University College London;
• ISEM, the mission’s infrared spectrometer that will assess mineralogy of targets and is led by Russian Academy of Science Space Research Institute;
• and CLUPI, a high-resolution camera designed for close-up images which is led by the Swiss based Space Exploration Institute.

The Aberystwyth team have been involved with field testing of prototype instruments and developing the pipeline for processing images sent back to Earth from Mars.

Dr Gunn and colleagues have been testing the mission’s camera system, PanCam, in remote desert like locations around the world, including Iceland, Utah in the USA and the Atacama Desert in South America.

Dr Gunn said: “The camera systems on this mission are highly sensitive as the scientists who work with these images will be looking for very subtle changes in colour. These images are not ordinary colour photographs; they will be used to work out the different types of rocks on Mars. It is known that some rocks form in wet environments, so accurately interpreting the images may help mission scientists to pinpoint where to look for possible signs of life.”

“Professor Barnes started all of our research with ExoMars and was a pioneer in space robotics. He is dearly missed and naming the Aberystwyth model is particularly apt. We are hoping the model will continue to inspire people in the way that Dave inspired us.”

The Aberystwyth ExoMars Rover is available for shows and school visits. To find out more visit the ExoMars at Aberystwyth University website. It is also possible to follow Barnes on Twitter @BarnesRover.

Photo: Pictured left to right are Stephen Fearn and Dr Matt Gunn who have built the Barnes ExoMars Rover, and Dr Helen Miles. Dr Matt Gunn is holding the mission’s colour calibration target which was developed by the late Professor Dave Barnes.

Links:

ExoMars at Aberystwyth
http://exomars.wales/outreach/barnes/

ExoMars Aberystwyth University
http://exomars.wales/outreach/barnes/

ESA/Roscosmos ExoMars
http://exploration.esa.int/mars/

Department of Computer Science
https://www.aber.ac.uk/en/cs/

Department of Physics
https://www.aber.ac.uk/en/phys/

Intelligent Robotics at Aberystwyth University
https://www.aber.ac.uk/en/cs/research/ir/

Study Solar System Physics at Aberystwyth University
https://www.aber.ac.uk/en/phys/research/solar/

Carmarthenshire County Council is encouraging people to hop on board and try public transport during ‘Catch the Bus Week’ this week (July 2 – 8)

The national event raises awareness about the benefits of travelling by bus with the hope of achieving long term travel change.

There are several public transport services in Carmarthenshire, including buses specifically to serve rural communities, such as Bwcabus which allows anyone to book a journey, linking those who feel stranded to the mainline busses and further afield.

The council partners with a number of companies to service a large network of routes, and also subsidises services such as Carmarthen’s Park and Ride from Nantyci.

During Catch the Bus Week, the council is encouraging people to travel by bus to explore Carmarthenshire’s fantastic events.

Cllr Hazel Evans, Executive Board Member for Environment, including transport, said: “During Catch the Bus Week I would really encourage people to leave the car at home even if just for one day, and experience how comfortable and convenient the bus can be. Buses boost the economy and carry more commuters daily than all other forms of transport combined, providing crucial access to many people who are dependent on the services for work and personal needs.

“With bus services such as Bwcabus allowing those in very rural areas to plan and book journeys, the bus services are becoming increasingly accessible to all.

“A number of events coincide with Catch the Bus Week – why not make the most of both and jump on the bus down to Pembrey and Burry Port Carnival or visit the town of Ammanford to try your hand at some arts and crafts.”

For more information visit the travel section on the council’s website to plan your journeys and visit the Discover Carmarthenshire website to see what’s on.

• Switching just one car journey in 25, or once a month to bus or coach, can remove one billion car journeys from our roads and result in a reduction of 2,000,000 tonnes of CO2
• Buses are critical to supporting community life by keeping people connected
• Bwcabus offer – Children travel free – Adults travel for child’s price – Valid on July 7

Press Release issued by Welsh Health Specialised Services Committee (WHSSC):

Pembrey Country Park has been chosen to host major athletics championship events in an exciting new partnership with Welsh Athletics.

The park has built a strong reputation for major sporting events in recent years, including athletics, cross country and all-terrain cycling, and last year played host to a successful Gwent Cross Country League which drew a huge crowd of runners and spectators.

In this new partnership, Welsh Athletics has committed to holding a number of events in Carmarthenshire for the first time, including the prestigious National Cross Country Championships, previously held in North Wales and Swansea.

Securing the event is a big coup for the park, which is also set to hit the sporting limelight in September when it hosts the ‘Grand Depart’ of the Tour of Britain, bringing some of the world’s best elite cyclists to the county in September.

Alex Donald, Competitions lead for Endurance events at Welsh Athletics, said: “Welsh Athletics are delighted to be able to work in partnership with Carmarthenshire County Council to bring our flagship Cross Country event to West Wales next year.

“Pembrey provides the ideal setting and great facilities to host the race, and athletes can expect a fun, scenic and challenging course around the park. The Welsh Cross Country Championships has a rich history and we’re looking forward to seeing our top endurance athletes across all the age ranges come here to test themselves and compete for National honours next February.”

The news has been welcomed by local athletes, including Team GB athlete Caryl Jones, GB Youth International Ben Thomas and Swansea Harriers runner Dewi Griffiths – who all hail from Carmarthenshire.

“Pembrey Country Park is on my doorstep so is an ideal place to train,” said Caryl. “I’m excited about this partnership which will see more major athletics events held here in Carmarthenshire.”

Ben Thomas added: “The landscape and facilities that the park offers make it a great venue for cross country championships. It will be great to have home advantage and the support of a local crowd during these competitions, I’m really looking forward to it.”

Cllr Peter Hughes Griffiths, Carmarthenshire County Council’s Executive Board Member for Culture, Sport and Tourism, said: “Pembrey Country Park is fast becoming the major sporting venue in Wales and we are delighted to have secured this commitment from Welsh Athletics which will attract huge numbers to the park. This is an exciting development, which – alongside the fantastic cycling opportunities we are bringing to the Park – really puts Carmarthenshire first place on the map for sporting events.”

Weblinks –

http://www.pembreycountrypark.wales

http://www.welshathletics.org

Melin Consultants, providers of sustainable building and construction solutions, are pleased to announce that they will once again be the main sponsor of this year’s Melin Sospan Sizzler Middle Distance Triathlon.

Held in Burry Port on Sunday, July 29, the event is being staged by the non-profit organisation Healthy Life Activities.

It’s the third time for the middle distance triathlon (a demanding ‘half Iron Man’ event) to be held in Burry Port – and it’s the second year of Melin’s generous sponsorship.

This is the only middle distance triathlon to be held in Carmarthenshire and the challenging hilly bike course attracts athletes from across the UK.

Entry numbers doubled in 2017 and the aim is to make sure 2018 is even bigger and better.

The Melin Sospan Sizzler Middle Distance Triathlon involves a 1.9km sea swim followed by a challenging 90km bike course through the countryside around Burry Port and the Gwendraeth Valley. The bike ride includes the legendary Meinciau climb.

The 21km run is flat and will provide athletes will a great chance of posting a quick time.

Most competitors will be looking to complete the event in under nine hours.

The winning time for the inaugural year in 2016 was an impressive 4hrs 53min.

That was bettered in 2017, when the race was won by Stephen Evans, of Bynea Cycling Club, in a time of 04:39:15.20.

Jamie Best, Director of Melin Consultants, is a keen triathlete and has competed in events across the UK and abroad.

Jamie said: “Like all triathlon competitors I love a challenge. I am sure that the Melin Sospan Sizzler will attract interest from athletes from throughout the UK and they can be assured of a warm West Wales welcome and some first class race organisation from Healthy Life Activities.

As part of the event sponsorship, Melin will be looking to attract a number of corporate relay teams from Carmarthenshire and further afield.

As well as the opportunity for the winning team to lift the Melin Sospan Sizzler Challenge Cup, Melin will also be donating £100 to the nominated charity of the winning corporate relay team.

Jamie Best added: “At Melin Consultants, we’re proud to be involved in such a worthwhile event.
“I’m an active participant in triathlon events so I’m particularly pleased that our company is able to provide sponsorship.

“By helping Healthy Life Activities encourage attendance to the Melin Sospan Sizzler middle distance triathlon, we can ensure that people not only enjoy the challenge but also have the satisfaction that they’ve given back to the local community.”

Website link to Melin Sospan Sizzler –

http://www.healthylifeactivities.co.uk/melin_sospan-sizzler-middle-distance-triathlon

Melin Consultants are based in Dafen, Llanelli, and provide sustainability solutions to construction projects throughout the UK. This includes a host of specialist services, from renewable feasibility studies to thermographic surveys identifying cold bridging in building fabrics.

Healthy Life Activities offer the largest diversity of mass sports participation events in the country. These events cater for individuals of all abilities and ages. A not-for-profit organisation, their events offer great value for money. With 108 events organised over the last 16 years, their experience ensures that athletes are at the centre of the process. To date, they have helped to raise more than £55,000 for charities.

Entry details for Melin Sospan Sizzler –

http://www.healthylifeactivities.co.uk/melin_sospan-sizzler-middle-distance-triathlon/enter-online

Contact Information
For more information please contact Jamie Best, Director, Melin Consultants:
T: 0845 094 1593
E: jamie@melinconsultants.co.uk
Website: www.melinconsultants.co.uk

Photos:

Melin Sospan Sizzler logo.

Melin company logo.

Jamie Best, pictured at Carmarthen Mayor’s Races.

Competitor at last year’s events.

The winners of the 2017 Melin Sospan Sizzler.

Hywel Dda University Health Board Press Release:

With just one week to go before Hywel Dda’s Big NHS Change consultation comes to an end on Thursday, 12th July, residents across Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion and Pembrokeshire are being urged to get involved and have their say on the health board’s three proposals to fundamentally change the way that we provide local healthcare services for the better.

Over the last eleven weeks we’ve heard from thousands of people about our plans to radically overhaul healthcare services to ensure that they are safe, sustainable, accessible and kind for current and future generations.  Each proposal has been tested by our clinicians and members of the public have been asked to provide their feedback in a multitude of different ways, which will be independently analysed and considered before any formal proposal is put before the Health Board later this year.

Hywel Dda’s Chief Executive, Steve Moore, said: “I’d like to thank everyone who has been involved in our consultation so far, whether they’ve taken the time to fill in a questionnaire, attended one of our public drop-in or stakeholder events, or provided feedback in other ways. 

“There is now one week left to go until the end of what has been the biggest and most important public consultation ever undertaken on the future of NHS services in west Wales, and every last sentiment counts. That’s why I am urging anyone who hasn’t already done so to read through our proposals and tell us what you think.

“I can’t stress enough how important it is for us to hear your views – now is the time to make your voices heard.”

Among the biggest challenges the health board currently faces are an ageing population, difficulty for many people in accessing services close to home, significant recruitment challenges – particularly specialist medical staff – and ageing hospital buildings which require a lot of maintenance to keep running.

To overcome these we want to radically change the way we provide local health care services so that people are accessing most of the care and treatment they need in their local community, and are able to stay at home while they are getting treatment rather than having to go into hospital. Reducing the number of main hospitals will mean having fewer medical rotas to fill, making it easier to attract clinicians to come and work for us; it will also mean shorter waiting times and fewer cancellations, and more money for local and community health services.

In all three of the proposals, Bronglais District General Hospital will continue to provide services for mid Wales; a new major hospital will be built somewhere between Narberth and St Clears, and there will be 10 community hubs across the Health Board area.

The proposals are:

Proposal A

• A new urgent care and planned care hospital between Narberth and St Clears
• Community hospitals in Glangwili, Prince Philip Hospital in Llanelli and Withybush
• A general hospital in Aberystwyth on the Bronglais Hospital site

Proposal B

• A new urgent care and planned care hospital between Narberth and St Clears
• Community hospitals in Glangwili and Withybush
• General hospitals at Prince Philip Hospital in Llanelli and Aberystwyth on the Bronglais Hospital site

Proposal C

• A new urgent care hospital between Narberth and St Clears
• A planned care hospital on Glangwili site
• A community hospital in Withybush
• General hospitals at Prince Philip Hospital in Llanelli and Aberystwyth on the Bronglais Hospital site

Hywel Dda’s Executive Medical Director & Director of Clinical Strategy, Dr Phil Kloer, added: “Since we launched Our Big NHS Change consultation we’ve heard a huge range of different views about our proposals and I would like to personally thank everyone who has shared these with us.  The conversation that you have been involved in has been critical in terms of helping to challenge and shape our way of thinking – these are the biggest changes that we as a health board have ever proposed and it’s essential that we don’t leave any stone unturned.

“The challenges we face are really significant.  People are living longer, some with long lasting health conditions, and we expect there to be many more older people who will need regular health care and social care.

“In our area some people live in towns and some in country areas, making it difficult for us to ensure that services are in the right place for people to access.  Many people live a long way from services, so helping people to live at home while they have treatment can involve a lot of travel for health workers.

“We know that people want to be supported to manage their health in their own homes – about 4 out of every 10 hospital beds are filled by people who could be treated at home. Added to this is the fact that we’re finding it hard to get enough permanent staff, especially specialist medical staff, to come and work for us, and we also need to make fuller use of new technology such as computers, phones, telehealth and telecare.

“We all have a shared passion for the NHS, our services, our history and our staff and we want to harness this to design, together with you, the best health service for our population.”

Please tell us your views by:

Completing the online questionnaire at: www.hywelddahb.wales.nhs.uk/hddchange 

Emailing us at: hyweldda.engagement@wales.nhs.uk

Telephone: 01554 899 056

Coming to one of our drop-in events:

Thursday 5^th July 2pm-7pm / Pill Social Centre, Milford Haven SA73 2QT

Monday 9^th July 2pm-7pm / Tumble Hall, Tumble SA14 6HR