Talks and shows

The art and science of cloudspotting

Gavin Pretor-Pinney, founder of the Cloud Appreciation Society, takes you on an illustrated tour of the sky.

Clouds in Blue Sky
Image via Rafael Garcin

Join Gavin Pretor-Pinney, as he demonstrates how to recognise many of the varied and beautiful cloud formations.

Learn about clouds big and small, from the fair-weather cotton tufts of Cumulus clouds to the flying-saucer shapes of lenticularis, and the rare and fleeting undulations known as fluctus clouds. Gavin explains why clouds look the way they do and how they reveal the invisible movements of our atmosphere.

Find out why clouds are the most dynamic, evocative and poetic aspect of nature, learn about why cloudspotting is the perfect antidote to the pressures of the digital world, and discover why spending a few moments each day with your head in the clouds will help you keep your feet on the ground.

Event type

This is a theatre only event where the speakers and audience are together in our Theatre.

By booking to attend events at the Royal Institution, you confirm that you have read and accept the Ri's event terms and conditions. You also agree to abide by our code of conduct, and help to create a great experience for yourself and your fellow participants. Please note that Eventbrite adds a small booking fee to the amount paid for each ticket option.

For any queries regarding this event please get in touch by phone 020 7409 2992 or email events@ri.ac.uk.

About the Speaker: Gavin Pretor-Pinney

image of Gavin Pretor-Pinney via TED
Via TED

Gavin Pretor-Pinney, founder of the Cloud Appreciation Society, takes you on an illustrated tour of the sky. He shows how to recognize many of the varied and beautiful cloud formations, from the fair-weather cotton tufts of Cumulus clouds to the flying-saucer shapes of lenticularis and the rare and fleeting undulations known as fluctus clouds. Gavin explains why clouds look the way they do and how they reveal the invisible movements of our atmosphere. You will understand why clouds are the most dynamic, evocative and poetic aspect of nature, you will learn how cloudspotting is the perfect antidote to the pressures of the digital world, and you’ll discover that spending a few moments each day with your head in the clouds will help you keep your feet on the ground. 

 

Timing

Doors to the theatre will open at 6.45pm and the talk will begin at 7.00pm.

Accessibility

The event will take place on the first floor and there is step-free access from the street via lift.

The closest underground station is Green Park, which is step-free.

There is space at floor level in the theatre for wheelchair users.

Seating is usually unreserved for our events. If you and your group require seating reservations, please do let us know by emailing us at events@ri.ac.uk, and we’ll be more than happy to help.

Carers can receive a free ticket to an event by emailing events@ri.ac.uk.

Our theatre is equipped with an Audio Induction Loop. 

Covid guidelines

Face masks are no longer mandatory and wearing one in our Theatre and at other Ri events is at your discretion, however please do not attend the Ri if you are displaying Covid symptoms or, if you have tested, the result remains positive. Thank you for respecting other people and their choices, and for helping us keep all of our visitors and staff safe and well.

Event terms and conditions