Events
Volatile chemistry in planet-forming disks
May 31, 2022
General Seminar
Dr. Jennifer Bergner, The University of Chicago
Planets form within disks composed of gas, ice, and dust in orbit around young stars. The distribution of volatiles (gas+ice) within these disks profoundly impacts both the chemical and physical outcomes of planet formation-- including the delivery of prebiotic building blocks to new worlds. In this talk, I will highlight our recent advances in disentangling how organic complexity is built up during the star and planet formation sequence, the role of interstellar inheritance in setting disk volatile compositions, and the distinctive volatile chemistry at play during the planet formation epoch. These insights are gained by combining telescope observations, ice chemistry experiments, and disk simulations, each of which contributes an indispensable piece of the puzzle. Taken together, we are assembling a more complete picture of the chemical environment which regulates the formation, composition, and potential habitability of planetesimals and planets.
The Science of Star Trek
June 16, 2022
Neighborhood Lecture Series
Michael Wong
Science fiction meets science reality during the 2022 Neighborhood Lecture Series
On June 16, 2022, at 6:30 PM EDT join us as we boldly go where no Neighborhood Lecture has gone before with postdoctoral fellow and astrobiologist Dr. Michael L. Wong.
From the Drake equation in Star Trek's original 1964 outline to gravitational waves in Star Trek: Discovery, we'll examine how scientific discoveries underpin this legendary science-fiction franchise's 55-year history. Want to explore strange new worlds and seek out new life?
No need to wait 'til the 23rd century—tune in to learn how Carnegie scientists are contributing to these monumental quests today!
Please note: Due to current COVID considerations, this will be a VIRTUAL lecture.