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The Mind of the Universe

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Aliens! Where are you?

In this lecture we explore the fascinating theme of life in a Universe that has been in constant change and development, from its very simple and remote origin.

Aliens lecture
From ancient beliefs that the Earth was a unique world created by divine powers for humankind to be at the centre of the Universe, to the amazing insights and discoveries that bravely challenged those misconceptions, in this lecture we explore the fascinating theme of life in a Universe that has been in constant change and development, from its very simple and remote origin. But, what is life and how could it develop on paradise Earth to the high level of diversity and complexity that we see today? Did it all happen just by chance?

Recent observtions show evidence for billions of solar systems in our Milky Way galaxy, where life could develop in similar ways. Should we find alien intelligence virtually everywhere? In our search for answers, we could find inspiration to address the fragility of complex life, the recent origin of humanity and our cosmic responsibility to preserve the precious environment that we call home, because we could well be the aliens we are looking for.

 

Main topics

From one to billions of worlds. Formation of stars and solar systems in the Universe, origin of our solar system. Formation of the Moon and the oceans, origin of primitive life, influence of the Moon, dynamic Earth, interior of the Earth, magnetic fields and plate tectonics. Interaction between life and the Earth. Cataclysmic extinctions of life. Possibility of alien life in the solar system and millions of others. The single human family and the fragility of living environments. 

Duration and Age group

The lecture takes about 50 minutes and it is usually followed by a lively discussion. It is aimed at general audiences above 12 years old.

                  Webpage last updated 5th June 2020