Does science have anything to say to the business world today? While we probably all feel it must, the declining enrolment in basic science programs argues that society fails to see that connection. Given that science and engineering underpins our civilization, this is a worrying trend. The methods of science, of the formulation of a hypothesis and the development and testing of a model, have far greater relevance than just investigating a research problem. They have relevance to the commercial world, for essentially this is the process of innovation. Astro-Ed has been developed to deliver this message. The wonder of astronomy is used to open up an audience's eyes to the methods of science. The concept of developing and testing a model can then be illustrated by describing our understanding of a subject - I have chosen the "Search for another Earth" as a suitable theme.

Can Astro-Ed work? It's early days yet, and the idea is still developing. Presentations have been given to three diverse groups; a conference of quality control managers, heads of departments of independent schools and the marketing division of AMP. These organisations have even been prepared to pay for the presentations. Science must be relevant to business practice - we simply have to find a way of selling the message.