Houston Science Enthusiasts

ONLILNE: The Sapp Center for Science Teaching and Learning in Stanford, CA presents an online public lecture by Dr. Alexandra 'Mitchell (Stanford/KIPAC), host of the podcast "Alex the Physicist."

Abstract: Two black holes collide over a billion light-years away, creating waves in the fabric of spacetime. But by the time those waves reach us, their effect is so small that they would change the light-years of distance by less than the width of a human hair. When Einstein predicted gravitational waves as a consequence of his theory of general relativity, detecting them seemed far beyond what experiments could achieve.

Doing so would require an instrument more sensitive than anything ever built before. At this extraordinary level of precision, almost everything gets in the way: ground motion, the thermal vibrations of atoms making up the detector, even the quantum nature of light. In this talk, we will explore how generations of scientists and engineers turned a measurement that once seemed impossible into one of the great experimental achievements of modern physics. She will also highlight some LIGO’s recent gravitational-wave discoveries and what they have revealed about our Universe, and how researchers are pushing these instruments even further to discover what we haven’t yet been able to see.

Learn more and register through EventBrite here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/public-lecture-gravitational-wave-detection-registration-2003171678414

The livestream URL can be found at the bottom of the EventBrite registration confirmation email.

The Rice Science Café presents a talk by Andrea Rummel, Assistant Professor of Biosciences, titled "Creatures of the Dark: The Secret Lives of Houston’s Bats."

Description: "Join us for a fascinating exploration of one of the world’s most misunderstood creatures: bats! Featuring Rice University biology professor Andrea Rummel, this engaging, all-ages event will explore the incredible biology and global diversity of bats, the specific species that call the Houston area home, and the astounding anatomy and physiology behind how these tiny mammals achieve powered flight and accomplish impressive feats of long-distance migration. We will tackle common bat myths, examine how bats adapt to urban environments, and discuss the mounting challenges they face due to climate change and human activities. Whether you are a wildlife enthusiast or simply curious about the amazing creatures in our local night sky, come enjoy a relaxed evening of science, conversation, and discovery — no background in biology required!"

Free onsite parking

Food and beverages can be purchased onsite

ONLINE: The National Air and Space Museum presents a live program featuring three veterans astronauts of the International Space Station.

"Over the last 25 years, the ISS has been home to more than 280 astronauts from 26 different countries. In fact, humans have been in space every day since November 2000. Orbiting about 250 miles above Earth, crews on the ISS have conducted over 4,000 groundbreaking scientific experiments, completed over 270 spacewalks, and engaged in international cooperation. Those of us back on Earth have connected with the astronauts on board the ISS through downlinks, social media posts, and stunning photos of Earth from hundreds of miles up. The crews of the International Space Station have made a home in space, creating a sustainable habitat for humans and proving we can live and work off our planet.

"Join current NASA and international astronauts as they discuss stories from their time on the International Space Station:

• NASA astronaut Anne McClain (Expeditions 58/59 and 72/73)
• NASA astronaut Don Pettit (Expeditions 6, 30/31, and 71/72)
• JAXA astronaut Koichi Wakata (Expeditions 18/19/20, 38/39, and 68)"

Registration for online program: https://www.trumba.com/eareg.aspx?ea=Rsvp&invite=0ax4up4v7170zs7uevaue5g2mnx7wnu53d5yn1fpm146h63xa57s

The James A. Baker Institute for Public Policy at Rice University presents an event featuring NASA Astronaut and former Johnson Space Center Director Ellen Ochoa.

DESCRIPTION: "Women have long played a vital, yet often underrecognized, role in science. Despite meaningful progress, gender disparities persist worldwide, shaped by institutional barriers, cultural expectations, and unequal access to education, research opportunities, and leadership roles.

"As part of the Joni Sue Lane Lecture Series, this event will feature Ellen Ochoa, a pioneering astronaut and engineer whose career reflects both the challenges and possibilities for women in science. Ochoa became the 11th director of NASA’s Johnson Space Center in 2013, the first Hispanic and second woman to lead the center, and flew four space shuttle missions as the first Hispanic woman in space. Drawing on her experience across research, spaceflight, and leadership, Ochoa will reflect on the evolving role of women in science, the barriers that remain, and the importance of expanding access and representation for future generations."

Event page and registration: https://www.bakerinstitute.org/event/joni-sue-lane-lecture-series-exploring-space-conversation-astronaut-ellen-ochoa

NOTE: RSVP'ing on this Meetup page DOES NOT mean you are registered for the event itself.

Campus parking: https://parking.rice.edu/parking-facilities-and-rates

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