Wed, December 3, 2025
6:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Performance Hall, Ohio Union
Special Public Lecture: "From lasers & styrofoam to diamond rain, and other improbable stories"
Speaker -- Dr. Jillian Scudder, Oberlin College
Wednesday, December 3, 2025
Performance Hall, Ohio Union
Title: From lasers & styrofoam to diamond rain, and other improbable stories
Abstract: You may have heard it rains diamonds on Neptune, but less well known is the tale of how and why we know this and other odd-sounding facts about outer space. I'll take you on a tour of some of the more unexpected things we've learned about our Universe, and how we've come to these conclusions. Be prepared for raising the stellar dead, toxic clouds of gas, and of course, lasers and styrofoam.
Dr. Jillian Scudder is an Associate Professor of Physics & Astronomy at Oberlin College. In addition to teaching at the undergraduate level, and her research on understanding nearby gas rich galaxies, she is the author of 3 books on astronomy aimed at the general public. Her short form writing can also be found on Forbes, The Independent, Nautilus, and more.
This talk will be free, open to all, and intended for general audiences. It will be followed by a reception with snacks where you can meet the speaker.
"If you have questions about accessibility or wish to request an accommodation for a disability, please contact John Beacom (beacom.7@osu.edu; 614-247-8102). With advance notice of two weeks, we can generally provide seamless access.”
To RSVP, please go to Special Public Lecture Registration.
Detailed agenda and other information will follow soon.