Unsolved Mysteries of the Universe

In this thought-provoking module, we will explore the unsolved mysteries of the universe that challenge our understanding of reality. Topics covered include:

• Dark matter and dark energy
• The nature of black holes and singularities
• Current and future instruments designed to probe these mysteries

Participants will engage in discussions about the implications of these mysteries and the potential breakthroughs in astronomy and physics.

Course Lectures

• Black Holes - No Need to be Afraid!

  Ian Morison

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  This module addresses the intriguing subject of black holes, often misunderstood and misrepresented in popular culture. Participants will learn:

  • What black holes are and how they form
  • Methods astronomers use to detect black holes, despite their invisibility
  • Stephen Hawking's groundbreaking theories suggesting that black holes can emit radiation

  By the end of this module, students will appreciate the complexities of black holes and dispel the fears surrounding them.

• Voyages to the Outer Solar System

  Ian Morison

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  This module takes you on a journey through the outer solar system, showcasing the remarkable discoveries made by various spacecraft. Key topics include:

  • The Voyager missions and their contributions to our understanding of Jupiter and Saturn
  • Galileo's orbiting of Jupiter and its significant findings
  • The Cassini-Huygens mission, focusing on Saturn and its moon Titan

  Students will gain insights into the stunning beauty of these planets and learn about the conditions on Titan, which intriguingly resemble those on Earth.

• Unsolved Mysteries of the Universe

  Ian Morison

  Playing

  In this thought-provoking module, we will explore the unsolved mysteries of the universe that challenge our understanding of reality. Topics covered include:

  • Dark matter and dark energy
  • The nature of black holes and singularities
  • Current and future instruments designed to probe these mysteries

  Participants will engage in discussions about the implications of these mysteries and the potential breakthroughs in astronomy and physics.

• The Violent Universe

  Ian Morison

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  This module examines the most violent events in the universe, providing an understanding of their nature and significance. The topics include:

  • Supernovae and hypernovae, their causes, and their effects on surrounding space
  • The phenomenon of gamma-ray bursts and their implications for cosmic studies
  • The Big Bang and what it tells us about the origin of our universe

  Through this module, students will gain a deeper insight into the dramatic events that shape the cosmos.

• Hubble's Heritage

  Ian Morison

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  This module pays homage to Edwin Hubble and the Hubble Space Telescope, exploring their profound impact on our understanding of the universe. Key points include:

  • Hubble's groundbreaking discovery of the expanding universe
  • Significant observations made by the Hubble Space Telescope
  • The implications of these discoveries on our understanding of galaxies and cosmic distances

  Students will appreciate the legacy of Hubble and how it continues to influence astronomical research.

• To Infinity and Beyond

  Ian Morison

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  This module provides an overview of the development of cosmology over the past century, revealing how our understanding has evolved. Topics covered include:

  • The Big Bang theory and its implications for the universe's origin
  • The concept of dark matter and dark energy, which constitutes most of the universe
  • The intriguing idea of a multiverse and what it means for our understanding of reality

  Participants will engage with the latest research and theories shaping our understanding of the cosmos.