David Phillips
Job Title
Operations Manager
About yourself
I have had a lifelong passion for travel and during my travelling life I have been lucky enough to visit over 70 countries on all seven continents. Some of my greatest adventures have included a seven month trip through Africa, crossing the Sahara, taking a local boat up the River Congo, trekking in several regions of the Himalaya and a cruise along the Antarctic Peninsula.
My interest in astronomy goes back to my childhood when my father showed me Jupiter and the Moon through a small refracting telescope. The first solar eclipse I viewed was in April 1976; it was just a partial eclipse from the UK but I remember it vividly.
Throughout my education I indulged my interest in all things scientific and graduated with a degree in Mathematics with Physics from the University of Sussex where I also became an active member (and eventually chairman) of the University's Astronomical Society. My main interest lies in making lunar and planetary observations.
In March 2012 I presented a series of lectures on the science of the aurora to audiences in Iceland and London and interpreted the sightings in relation to satellite data. I particularly enjoy sharing my knowledge of constellations and helping people locate astronomical bodies whilst under a perfect starry sky.
Professionally I’m now fortunate to combine my two passions of travel and astronomy.
What do you love most about your job?
The chance to talk to people about all the life enriching things the world (and the Universe) has to offer.
What is your most memorable travel experience?
Travelling to the remote Atoll of Hao in French Polynesia to view the Total Solar Eclipse with a group of 125 astronomers in July 2010 - a trip I'll never forget for many reasons! We set up a temporary camp which was home for a week and had great viewing conditions for the eclipse - The diamond ring at third contact was stunning.
Best travel tip
I always pack a pair of binoculars. Travelling to exotic countries usually yields exciting animal life during the day and dark skies by night when you can turn them to the heavens.
What inspires you to travel?
Curiosity!
Which Explorers trips have you been on?
China Total Solar Eclipse - July 2009
Kenyan Annular Eclipse - January 2010
Tahiti and the Tuamotu Islands - Total Solar Eclipse - July 2010
Icelandic Northern Lights - February/March 2011 & 2012
Turkish Meteor Tour - October 2011
US Annular Eclipse - May 2012
Hawaii - Transit of Venus - June 2012
Australian Eclipse Tour - November 2012
Iceland - Northern Lights - Jan/Feb/March 2013
