Dame Maggie is one of Britain’s most recognisable space scientists and an ardent champion of science literacy. An honorary research associate in UCL’s Department of Physics and Astronomy and Chancellor of the University of Leicester (2023– ), she engineers cutting-edge optical instruments for satellites and telescopes while captivating millions as co-presenter of BBC television’s landmark astronomy series The Sky at Night.
Her technical career ranges from designing hand-held spectrographs for chemical-threat detection to leading optics work that helped shape the James Webb Space Telescope, the most powerful eye ever launched into space. Celebrated with an MBE in 2009 and elevated to Dame Commander in 2024, she pairs rigorous expertise with a storyteller’s flair. Through her social enterprise Science Innovation Ltd she has inspired more than half a million students worldwide, championing diversity and opportunity in STEM.
In 2025, Maggie delivered the Royal Institution’s 200th Christmas Lectures, guiding audiences through cosmic history and the latest breakthroughs in space exploration. Her recent books, Webb’s Universe and The Story of the Solar System, bring the wonders of the universe to readers of all ages.
On stage Maggie demystifies the universe, translating frontier astrophysics into vivid lessons on curiosity, innovative thinking and collaborative problem-solving. Audiences leave not only understanding dark matter or exoplanets, but equipped with fresh perspectives on resilience, inclusive leadership and the rewards of audacious vision. Whether advising C-suite strategists on disruptive technologies or motivating young minds to “reach for the stars,” she delivers insight, inspiration and credible foresight with a truly global outlook.
