Beyond Earth: Unveiling the wonders of our Solar System

Abstract: 

In this beginner-friendly talk, we will explore our solar system, focusing on the 2025 planetary alignment, upcoming eclipses and potential asteroid impacts! We will consider the planets and moons where we would most likely find life outside of Earth and discuss some of the findings and oddities of the inner planets and the outer gas giants. Tim will cover basic solar system structure and how we could ever achieve interstellar travel. And as usual, there will be time for Q&A where he will (hopefully) be able to shed light on a few queries of our unique place in the galaxy!

Your Host:

UBC Astronomy Club with guest speaker Tim Stephenson.

Tim Stephenson, from Langley BC, is a veteran science and astronomy educator with over 30 years of teaching experience, recognized with the Prime Minister’s Award for Teaching Excellence. Known for his passionate approach, Tim focuses on making science accessible, meaningful, and relevant. He is the author of Beyond the Classroom, a book detailing his teaching journey, and he shares his knowledge as the host of the Science 360 podcast and YouTube channel (Science 360 - Beyond the Sky). Tim is also a regular public presenter on space and astronomy topics.

Learn More:

• About planetary alignments and parades: https://science.nasa.gov/solar-system/skywatching/planetary-alignments-and-planet-parades/
• About future eclipses: https://science.nasa.gov/eclipses/future-eclipses/
• About Asteroids: https://science.nasa.gov/solar-system/asteroids/
• About Exoplanets (or habitable planets outside our solar system): https://science.nasa.gov/exoplanets/