Vega puts Science TV on the Web
www.vega.org.uk
 If
you want to find out about the real science behind, say, genetically modified
foods, what better place to go than to some of the scientists working on it?
Access to such material can often be difficult, but a UK based charity, the Vega
Science Trust, now has a wide range of science videos available to view directly
over the Internet, and all for free.
The Vega Science Trust is a charity whose remit is to provide a platform
where scientists can communicate directly with the public on issues that are
important to them. The channel's programmes cover all aspects of science at
every level, from the UK's first astronaut, Helen Sharman, exploring life in
space with primary school children, to research level debates such as
"Bernal and the social function of science". The programmes were
originally recorded to the BBC's stringent broadcast standards, and have been
compressed for viewing on the Web.
 "Our
aim is to bridge the gap that is often perceived between science and
society", says Sir Harry Kroto, Nobel prize-winning founder of the Trust.
"The Trust aims to provide well-informed views on technical issues, and so
make science more accessible and understandable to the widest possible range of
target audiences. In areas of public concern we want to help ensure the best
possible advice is available and so ensure that decisions may be made
judiciously".
To date Vega has made over 60 programmes, most of which have been broadcast
in the UK. These include a fascinating set of lectures recorded at the Royal
Institution and Royal Society in London, workshops, master classes, discussion
programmes, and archive recordings. As well as covering topical issues such as
GM Foods, Mad Cow Disease and Energy Generation, there are also programmes on
subjects such as the brain, the effect of electricity on the body, particle
physics and wormholes, and even creativity and computers. All of these
programmes are now available over the Web. The site also features archive
recordings of major scientists such as Fred Sanger (father of modern genetic
engineering), Joseph Rotblat (Nobel peace prize winner and founder of "Pugwash")
and Max Perutz (who determined the structure of Haemoglobin).
Vega is a charity and the service is provided for free. There is no
commercial advertising on the site and the software you need to play the videos
can also be downloaded for free (the "RealPlayer", as used on the BBC
Website). The programmes are viewable from a home modem, although the quality
improves if you are using a better connection.
"Internet broadcasting has several advantages over conventional
television", said Dr Chris Ewels, who developed the Web site. "For
example, unlike conventional broadcasting we are not restricted to fixed
schedules. Instead you select the programme you want and it plays immediately on
your computer".
"Vega's aim is to provide a service we feel is important", adds Sir
Harry. "We should be one of the few successful Internet sites in that we're
actually planning not to make a profit!"
The programmes can be viewed by visiting the Website www.vega.org.uk
Article by Dr Chris Ewels, Vega Science Trust
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