On Thursday, January 11th, we’ll be kicking off the new year with an all space themed Nerd Nite.
Guest speakers include: Brendan Byrne, Derek Demeter, & Dr. Zoe Landsman
SIGN UP HERE: http://bit.ly/spacenite2018
Nerd Nite is an evening of entertaining yet thought-provoking presentations– all while the audience drinks along in a casual atmosphere. Speakers present for 15-20 minutes each on a fascinating subject, often in an uncanny and unconventional way. Following each presentation is a brief Q&A with the audience.
Suggested Donation $5.00
Doors open at 6pm. Program starts at 7pm
Questions? Contact:
PRESENTATION #1: “Getting High on Astronomy: A Scientific Pilgrimage to the Chilean Desert” by Derek Demeter
The Atacama desert in Chile is not only the driest place on Earth but is the mecca of astronomical research with no equal anywhere on planet Earth. The darkest and clearest skies can be found there and some of the most advanced observatories make their home in this inhospitable landscape. Join Derek Demeter as he recalls his recent pilgrimage to the many wonderful observatories found in Chile. Prepared to get high on astronomy!
Derek is the director of the Emil Buehler Planetarium at Seminole State College in Sanford, Florida. Derek also enjoys promoting science beyond the planetarium with his work as an astrophotographer, which earned him pictures seen in NASA’s Astronomy Picture of the Day website, Universe Today, Astronomy Magazine, and Sky and Telescope.
PRESENTATION #2: “Sky rockets in flight, asteroids delight: Asteroid Mining for Science, Profit, and Fun!” by Dr. Zoe Landsman
Why are both scientists and entrepreneurs interested in asteroid mining? What are some misconceptions about it? And how is it an important step on the road to human settlement and exploration of space?
Dr. Zoe Landsman is a postdoctoral researcher with the Florida Space Institute at the University of Central Florida. Dr. Landsman’s research is focused on studying the surfaces of asteroids to learn about the early solar system and to determine the suitability of specific asteroids for resource utilization.
PRESENTATION #3: “Are We There Yet?” by Brendan Byrne
When it comes to putting humans on Mars, are we there yet? After two years hosting the podcast “Are We There Yet?” Brendan may have the answer: Nope. But strides are being made to get humans there sooner than we think.
Brendan Byrne is WMFE’s space reporter and host/producer of “Are We There Yet?”, the station’s space exploration podcast. He’s a contributor to NPR’s national programming, bringing space news from Florida to a national audience. He’s a graduate of space camp class of 1996 and a self-diagnosed space geek.