The Art and Science of Science Fiction Writing - Medieval Mosaic Preservation

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The Art and Science of Science Fiction Writing Quentin talks to science fiction writer Stephen Baxter about his new book “Flood” – a disaster story with a plot driven by relentless sea level rise. How much does science fact dictate the science fiction? Is science fiction a good way to explore possible scenarios that might befall us and our planet? And is the process of writing a sf thriller rather like testing a scientific model to destruction? Flood by Stephen Baxter is published by Gollancz on 17th July 2008 Medieval Mosaic Preservation Repeated flooding in Venice's Basilica di San Marco is slowly destroying the cathedral's priceless mosaics. The intricate tiling covers over 8000 square metres of walls and vaults, but salt water seeping in from the basement is damaging the lime mortar holding it in place. Diana Edwards from the University of Bristol’s Interface Analysis Centre and Dr. Will Wootton from Kings College London, join Quentin Cooper to discuss the latest restoration efforts and how materials science is helping piece together this medieval masterpiece.