Daniel Kasen, Research Associate Professor, UC Berkeley

Gravitational Waves and the Glow of Cosmic Gold

In October 2017, Earthlings detected gravitational waves — ripples in the fabric of space time — from the violent merger of two ultra-dense neutron stars. The signals showed that collision debris self-assembled into heavy elements, such as gold and platinum, providing an explanation for the cosmic origin of these special materials.

• Register your car and download a PASS to Park at Rock Spring parking lot and CARPOOL if possible

• Dress appropriately, it can be cold in the evenings on the mountain

• Bring a flashlight to help navigate your way from the theater to the telescopes and cars

• IF the weather is questionable the day of the event, call our hotline: 415-455-5370 after 3:30pm. Any cancellations will be posted. Note that cloudy weather and/or high winds may prevent observing through the telescopes, but generally don’t stop the lectures. Talks are cancelled only for rain or fire danger.