University of Iowa astronomer and physicist Steven Spangler will unfold the intricate relationship between the sun and the earth in a guest lecture Thursday, Sept. 6, at Brigham Young University as part of a national lecture series sponsored by the Division of Plasma Physics of the American Physical Society.
The lecture, "The Sun in the Year of Solar Maximum," will begin at 7:30 p.m. in 1060 Harold B. Lee Library. Admission is free, and the public is welcome to attend.
During his lecture, Spangler will explain the physics behind one of his main research interests: the effect of solar flares on the earth. Solar flares can disrupt communications and power systems and can cause dangerous levels of radiation for astronauts.
The sun’s solar flares climax every 11 years. Over the next 12 months, the earth will experience such a climax in solar flares, making Spangler’s lecture especially significant.
The Division of Plasma Physics brings scientists together to share and collaborate on research. The organization also invests significant time and resources to educate the community through programs such as its distinguished lecturer series.
For more information, contact Clark Christensen at 801-422 -2207, cgchristensen@byu.edu.
