Since time immemorial, people have gazed up at the night sky in wonderment. Yet the answer to the question: “Is there anyone out there?” continues to evade us. But the 16th century Italian physicist, mathematician, astronomer and philosopher, Galileo Galilei, gave us a much better understanding of the heavenly bodies that make up our universe.
2009 is the International Year of Astronomy, marking the 400th anniversary of Galileo’s first use of the simple telescope; thus beginning four centuries of unfolding the mysteries of the universe. In Galileo’s time, attempting to unfold these mysteries meant risking life, limb and freedom. While the risks associated with discovery are no longer with us, our understanding of the universe, though infinitely better, remains incomplete.
The speaker’s presentation will touch on the major achievements of Galileo and the amazing developments in our understanding of the universe.
Speaker: Barry Olson
Barry Olson is the President of Lethbridge Astronomy Society. He has been a member of the society for 20 years. He is also a member of the National Space Society, the Planetary Society, and the Canadian Association of Rocketry. He has held a life-long interest in astronomy and space exploration.
Dr. Olson has a Ph.D in soil science and agriculture. He works for Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development as a Research Scientist focusing on soil, water, and environmental issues in agriculture.