What Has Quantum Mechanics Done For us?

Quantum Physicist Ray Parker will describe some of the strange predictions of quantum mechanics, and how they have shaped your life.

Constellations & Cultures

Mariama Jones Science Educator from The Fairbanks Museum comes to Mad River Valley Arts on Oct.17, 5:30-7pm. Constellations & Cultures: Humanity's obsession with the stars is so ancient its been depicted in cave paintings. We have always looked up at the stars with wonder and curiosity which led us to create the patterns that we now call constellations. These constellations often come with stories meant to explain the existence of stars, tell epic tales or teach important lessons. Every culture has their own constellations and stories which we will explore in this presentation one story at a time. 

How the Earth Rides the Solar Wind 

Presenters James Slinkman and Josh Kuckens will explore how the Earth’s magnetic field protects us from dangerous high energy particle radiation which is carried to Earth from the Sun by the “Solar Wind”. We’ll explore how this reaction manifests itself via the generation of beautiful visible Aurora (aka the “Northern Lights”) in the Earth’s atmosphere. The key quantum mechanisms which are involved are briefly described. Images and videos of many of the phenomena, including the recent Vermont Aurora will figure prominently in the presentation.