Capturing the Universe - a conversation with Thom Burns, Curator of the Harvard Plate Stacks at the Center for Astrophysics│Harvard & Smithsonian

Join us on Saturday, 8/23 from 4-6 pm for a special conversation with Thom Burns, Curator of the Harvard Plate Stacks, the world’s largest and oldest collection of astronomical photography. This unique archive is both a scientific and historical treasure, driving early innovations in photography and continuing to inspire artists today.

We are thrilled to be able to highlight this unique collection, which ties in perfectly with the themes of our current exhibition Space Odyssey. In his talk, Burns will give an overview of the collection and its history, with special focus on the pioneering women astronomers of the early 20th century. He will also highlight moments where artists and artworks have sparked new scientific insights and discoveries.

Thom Burns is the Curator of the Harvard College Observatory’s Astronomical Photographic Glass Plate Collection at the Center for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian. His professional and academic career focuses on specifically connecting and creating synergy among interdisciplinary fields and historical collections. Working with artists, authors, astrophysicists, and conservators, his main role is to facilitate the research, understanding, and inspiration between individuals and the Harvard Plate Stacks collection.

Photo credit: Williamina Fleming (right of center), the first Curator of the Astronomical Photographic Glass Plate Collection. Photo courtesy of the Harvard University Archives.

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