Laura Martin

Science Writer

United Kingdom

Hiya, I'm a freelance science writer based in Scotland. My work covers all things space, including astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, space exploration, human spaceflight and more. I also enjoy exploring stories where space intersects with other areas in science and nature, such as the effects of light pollution and the preservation of dark skies.

I hold a master's (MSc) degree in Observational Astrophysics (distinction) from Liverpool John Moores University. My background in science means I value factual accuracy. Therefore, I provide thorough and extensive research, fact-checking and proofreading.

My writing has been published in The Week Junior Science+Nature magazine for kids. I was also the guest space expert on their Mysteries of Science podcast episode "What killed Venus?". The listener is invited to become an interplanetary detective!

I strive to create STEM content that’s informative but also engaging because it should be fun! One of my main motivations is to make content that is accessible and inclusive so that it can be enjoyed by all.

I have previous experience with SpaceCareers.uk as a content writer and editor. I helped to develop space career-orientated resources for young people, early-career professionals and career changers.

I've also used my writing as an effective means of science communication in various STEM careers projects, such as the Letters to a Pre-Scientist programme.

I'm open to commissions, and I'd love to collaborate on exciting projects. Feel free to get in touch! 🚀

Bluesky: @laura-martin.bsky.social

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Portfolio
The Week Junior Science+Nature (Issue 85)
01/03/2025
Mysteries of Science: Searching for Planet X

Our solar system is home to eight planets: Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus and Neptune. However, for over a century there's been speculation of another possible planet, known as Planet X, lurking in the distant solar system. This may sound far-fetched, but some astronomers think it's real. There's a catch, though - telescopes have yet to find Planet X, so does it actually exist? The search is on to solve the mystery.

The Week Junior Science+Nature (Issue 82)
06/12/2024
Mysteries of Science: What killed Venus?

Let's investigate the solar system's hottest and most deadly "murder" mystery. Venus is sometimes called “Earth’s twin” because the two rocky planets occupy the same region of the solar system, and are similar in size and the materials they are made of. However, while Earth is a haven for life, Venus is the solar system’s hottest planet and a barren world.

Room The Space Journal of Asgardia
2020
[Co-author] Opportunities for young people in the space sector - Room: The Space Journal

With space becoming more and more important in our daily lives, we need to educate young people about space-related activities and careers and provide them with the skills needed to enter the sector. There are year-round events for students of all ages, backgrounds and abilities and, if they know where to look, young people can find opportunities targeted to each stage of their development, leading to an exciting and rewarding career in the space sector.

Conference: H-SPACE 2020
26/02/2020
[Co-author] The importance of educating students about careers in the space sector: a student...

The UK space sector is rapidly expanding, seeing a 6.4% compound annual increase in employees since 1999/2000 and an average of 39 new companies entering the industry every year since 2012 [1]. Such growth rates are likely to increase as the UK works toward its goal to capture 10% of the global space market by 2030 [1]. To accommodate for this increase in employee demand and avoid the inevitable skills shortage which generally arises in specialist roles, an increased number of capable...

Proceedings of the 3rd Symposium on Space Educational Activities
18/09/2019
[Co-author] The need for an Inclusive Space Sector - a Student Perspective

The UK Space Agency aims for the sector to account for 10% of the global sector by 2030 [1]. This target cannot be achieved without growing the workforce to support the sector, which will require removing barriers to accessibility for under-represented minorities, making the sector inclusive for all.