Keynote lecture

Beyond the visible Universe: how new Astronomy observations will revolutionise Physics

Physics strives to provide compelling scientific explanations for the phenomena that we observe. Quantum mechanics, particle physics and Einstein’s theory of gravity are all examples of physical laws that have withstood the test of time. Yet, the mathematical laws which capture so well the properties of atoms and planets fail to explain other observations, like the rotation of galaxies or the distribution of matter across the sky. They fail unless one assumes that a special type of invisible matter, called dark matter, permeates the Universe, or one accepts that Einstein's theory of gravity needs to be modified. In this talk, new Astronomy observations will be discussed that are going to revolutionise our understanding of the Universe, our place in it, and why this could have an impact on life on Earth.

Professor Celine Boehm

Professor Celine Boehm is an Astroparticle physicist who is currently the Head of School of Physics at the University of Sydney and former head of the space mission consortium ESA/Theia. She worked at renowned Universities in the UK, France (CNRS), Switzerland (CERN), Canada (Perimeter institute) and now Australia (USYD). In total she has written more than 100 papers that have attracted over 7600 citations thus far and has collaborators all over the world. Her work is the cornerstone of modern dark matter experiments and, as such, she is a CI of the ARC Centre of Excellence (CoEDM). She has also made significant contributions to science communication, and run science engagement activities across Europe.

When:
7:30pm - 8:30pm

Location:
Macquarie Theatre
21 Wally's Walk

Wallumattagal campus

Balaclava Road
Macquarie University NSW 2109

City campus

Angel Place
Level 24, 123 Pitt Street
Sydney NSW 2000

Event Contact

astronomyopennight@mq.edu.au

Acknowledgement of Country

Macquarie University is located on the land of the Wallumattagal clan of the Dharug people. We pay respects to the Elders and knowledge holders who have, and continue to share their wisdom and knowledges, nurturing and sustaining our environments, cultures and education.