How Can we Find Other Life in the Universe? at Oak Creek Public Library

The Oak Creek Public Library is excited to host a Badger Talk by Thomas Beatty, Assistant Professor in the Department of Astronomy at the University of Wisconsin–Madison. Are we alone in the universe? This question has been asked for over two thousand years, and we now possess the tools and techniques necessary to answer it. Professor Beatty will discuss what we want to look for on other planets to see if there is life as well as how we have started this search using current and future telescopes. Professor Thomas Beatty grew up sailing off the coast of New England. He has a Bachelor’s degree from Harvard University, a Master’s in physics from MIT, and a PhD in astronomy from Ohio State University. Before moving to UW, he worked as an instrument scientist on the James Webb Space Telescope, where he helped build one of Webb’s cameras and helped to operate it once Webb reached space. His research focuses on measuring the atmospheres of exoplanets—planets around other stars—to figure out what they are made out of and what their climates are like, to understand how planets form, and to search for life elsewhere in the universe. He has also discovered nine new exoplanets, none of which he got to name after himself. The University of Wisconsin–Madison Badger Talks program reflects the tradition of the Wisconsin Idea—to extend the resources of the University to citizens of the state. They connect faculty and staff from hundreds of different disciplines with communities throughout the state to spark conversations on important topics, engage residents on critical issues, and share the latest UW research. This program will take place in the Multi-purpose Room and is geared toward adults. Registration is required. Register starting June 6 by visiting www.oakcreeklibrary.org/events or over the phone by calling 414-766-7900.

Event Links

Website: https://go.evvnt.com/2138836-0

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