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Recreating the Real Loch Ness Monster

A pleiosaur, open-mouthed, under water

Event schedule details

Sunday 16 June

16.30-17.15

Event location details

G16 lecture theatre

Sir Alexander Fleming Building

Journey through 200 years of prehistoric sea monsters, and learn how imaging technology, 3D printing, and robotics are re-imagining these ancient reptiles.

From inspiring the myth of the Loch Ness Monster, to creating a Victorian craze, and even starring in their own David Attenborough documentary, plesiosaurs have long held a special place in people's imagination.

However, depictions of these ancient seas monster in stories, art, film and TV have evolved significantly over the centuries. In this session, biomechanics expert and plesiosaur robot builder Dr Luke Muscutt will look at these interpretations and artistic depictions over the last 200 years, and discuss how scientific discoveries and technological developments in areas as diverse as geology, biology and robotics have contributed to our view of these amazing sea creatures.

Visitor information

Talks and discussions are intended for an adult audience and are most suitable for ages 14+.

This event will be live captioned.

This event is part of the Art of Science talk series, shown at location number 22 on the Festival Map. The talk has some advance tickets released to visitors but there will also be drop-in spaces on the day.

If you have an advance ticket, please arrive at the venue 10 minutes before the start time. Your ticket gives you priority access, however, as this is a free event we overbook to help ensure a full event and your space may be reallocated. Early arrival reduces this risk.

This event has step-free access.

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Event categories

  • Adults
  • Talks and tours
A pleiosaur, open-mouthed, under water