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Gravitational waves, once predicted by Einstein, were a major discovery last year- but what’s next? Join us to find out more about the futuristic gravitational waves detectors planned for the next 20 years. We will also explore the cosmos on both large and small scales using the unseen neutrinos to answer the question: what else is there out there? Please note that this event takes place on the ground floor and is accessible for those with impaired mobility.
Alcohol, hot and cold drinks will be on offer and there will cakes and snacks available.
Alcohol, hot and cold drinks will be on offer and there will cakes and snacks available.
Gravitational Waves - Ripples of our Universe
Dr Ed Daw
(Reader in Physics)
The amazing idea that gravity is deeply connected to the geometry of the Universe has been around for 102 years, since Einstein invented general relativity. Scientists and engineers working on the LIGO project recently succeeded in detecting gravitational waves from far off cataclysmic events involving colliding black holes. What does this mean for humanity? In this talk, we'll take a wild ride through the jungle of technology, science and mathematics that lead to the frontiers of gravitational wave detection, and show that riches can be bought back from these expeditions into the unknown.
Cosmic Ghosts
Dr Matthew Malek
(Lecturer in Experimental Particle Physics)
This talk involves simultaneously exploring the Universe on its largest and smallest scales.
I will start by introducing Nature's ghost, the neutrino, which is the lightest known particle. I will then describe how we can use neutrinos as a telescope into the heart of the Sun, a dying star, or a distant galaxy. I will conclude by explaining how neutrinos may also answer a vital question: 'Why are we here?' Not philosophy -- rather, why is there any matter at all in the Universe? We do not yet know, but neutrinos may hold the answer.
I will start by introducing Nature's ghost, the neutrino, which is the lightest known particle. I will then describe how we can use neutrinos as a telescope into the heart of the Sun, a dying star, or a distant galaxy. I will conclude by explaining how neutrinos may also answer a vital question: 'Why are we here?' Not philosophy -- rather, why is there any matter at all in the Universe? We do not yet know, but neutrinos may hold the answer.
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