Tales from the frontlines of mountain exploration, from an audacious ascent of Aikache Chhok to lifesaving research into glacial floods.
The mountains are changing around us. Glacier loss and increasing instability are making the work of exploratory mountaineers ever more hazardous and difficult, but the challenges are no less acute for those living in the valleys beneath these crumbling giants.
This year’s Mount Everest Foundation lecture asks what the future holds for mountaineers and mountain communities, drawing on the experiences of young alpinists and pioneering mountain scientists.
George Ponsonby and James Price’s ascent of Aikache Chhok (6,673m) in Pakistan was hailed as one of the most impressive mountaineering achievements of 2025, a daring climb that pushed the pair to the limit over nine days on the mountain. As two climbers at the very start of their careers, they exemplify how a new generation is choosing to approach high altitude climbing.
Joining them on stage will be Professor Rachel Carr and Sonam Rinzin who will present their groundbreaking research on glacial lake outburst floods and the growing risks they pose to mountain communities. Drawing on their work in Bhutan, the pair will explain how remote villages might adapt to this growing threat.
Join us for an evening of inspiration and insight, pulled direct from the frontlines of mountain exploration.
Booking information
This is an in-person event and is open to all. Tickets start from £20. To book tickets, please visit the MEF Eventbrite.
This event has not been organised by the Society. If you have any questions or require assistance with your booking please contact the event organiser via info@mef.org.uk
Venue information
This event will be held in the Ondaatje Lecture Theatre at Royal Geographical Society (with IBG), 1 Kensington Gore, London, SW7 2AR.
Plan your visit to the Society and find more information about the venue, including the address, accessibility, and transport links.
Photo by Michael Clarke.