UAA STEM Talks: The Light Side and Dark Side of the Universe

UAA STEM Talks: The Light Side and Dark Side of the Universe
Wednesday, March 17, 6 p.m.
Live on Facebook and Zoom

Join us for the second in our lecture series highlighting STEM at UAA! This event will showcase two presenters, Dr. Erin Hicks and Dr. Nate Hicks, and their research. Each presentation is followed by a live Q&A from our Facebook and Zoom audiences.

A Universe Full of Mystery: Black holes and Dark Matter (Dr. Erin Hicks)

Our Universe would not be what it is today without black holes and dark matter, but by definition neither can actually be “seen”. How then do we know they exist? This talk will describe the evidence that has led astronomers to believe that the Universe is full of both dark matter and supermassive black holes, and will explain why studying these key components of the universe is essential to understanding the Universe in which we live. 

Plasma: The "Light" Matter of the Universe (Dr. Nate Hicks)

The plasma state of matter is the most abundant form of normal matter in the universe, by far! It makes up stars and nebulae, lightning bolts and the aurora...and it's the main ingredient in nuclear fusion energy research that could bring the power of stars down to Earth. How much do you know about the "fourth" state of matter? Join us to learn about where plasma is found in nature, how we can use it in society and technology, and how plasma scientists and engineers are working toward new breakthroughs in plasma research every day, including here at UAA.

STEM Talks will continue every other Wednesday through spring 2021. View the upcoming UAA STEM Talks schedule.

March Archive