Merging Galaxy Clusters as Multifaceted Astrophysical Laboratories The number of known merging galaxy clusters has been increasing at a faster than exponential rate and there are now over 50 known major mergers. I will discuss this boom of discovery and the science that such an ensemble enables. In particular I will focus on the Merging Cluster Collaboration ...
There Once Was An IslandWhat if you had to leave your home forever? Takuu, a tiny atoll in Papua New Guinea, contains the last Polynesian culture of its kind. Facing escalating climate-related impacts, including a terrifying flood, community members Teloo, Endar and Satty take us on an intimate journey to the core of their ...
Where: San JoseCost: Free
HETEROGENEOUS SILICON PHOTONICSSilicon photonics has a number of advantages that make it interesting for quantum electronics. Ultralow loss waveguides have been demonstrated on silicon with losses below 0.001 dB/cm. This enables high Q resonators with Qs of 80 million or higher. Since the linewidth of a semiconductor laser depends on the Q, ...
Great uncertainty surrounds our efforts to mitigate climate impacts from energy use. One promising strategy for long-term climate mitigation is the use of renewable resources including wind and solar. Their weather-dependent nature however requires flexible power grid technologies to maintain power grid stability. As more intermittent and distributed renewable energy ...
Symmetry and topology are two of the conceptual pillars that underlie our understanding of matter. While both ideas are old, over the past several years a new appreciation of their interplay has led to dramatic progress in our understanding of topological electronic phases. A paradigm that has emerged is that ...
Where: BerkeleyCost: Free
Blue Gold: World Water WarsWars of the future will be fought over water as they are over oil today, as the source of human survival enters the global marketplace and political arena. Corporate giants, private investors, and corrupt governments vie for control of our dwindling supply, prompting protests, lawsuits, and revolutions from citizens fighting ...
What If 'Intelligent Design' Had Won?Ten years have passed since a conservative District Court judge ruled that teaching intelligent design in public schools violates the 1st Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. The National Center for Science Education, led by Eugenie Scott, was a principal consultant in this crucial decision for separation of church and state. Please join ...
Where: San FranciscoCost: Free
Tuesday, 02/09/16
Geology After PlutoJeff Moore is the lead of the New Horizons Geology Team. He will talk about the discoveries made by the New Horizons mission on the fascinating fly by of the dwarf planet Pluto.Speaker: Jeff Moore, NASA Ames
The Fight for WaterThis historical documentary, set during the 2009 California Water Crisis, follows the stories of two Central Valley farmers. They discuss how water restrictions and environmental regulations have threatened their way of life, their American dream and their community. The crisis point was an environmental ruling to protect an endangered fish ...
Clinical Empathy in a Post-ACA WorldLearn how health care providers can recognize when their emotions are worsening conflicts with patients and families. In the current health care climate, providers are under increasing pressure to do more for patients in less time. Providers want to give empathic care but fear burning out. Patients and families are ...
Where: BerkeleyCost: reservations recommended
Open Space and Climate ResiliencyBlue Greenway's Jackie Omotalade will lead a panel discussion on climate change and the efficacy of employing open space and parks as a tool for climate resiliency at San Francisco's southeastern waterfront. Panelists will include the city administrator's office and other key players in the waterfront development initiative.Panel:Anthony Kahil, Candelstick ...
Where: San FranciscoCost: $20 General, $8 Members, $7 Students
The Fight for WaterThis historical documentary, set during the 2009 California Water Crisis, follows the stories of two Central Valley farmers. They discuss how water restrictions and environmental regulations have threatened their way of life, their American dream and their community. The crisis point was an environmental ruling to protect an endangered fish ...
Will a green economy be more equitable than the brown economy? As California transitions to renewable energy, the result will be green jobs, cleaner communities and lower carbon emissions. But will underserved communities get shafted? The environmental justice community has been concerned that the state's cap-and-trade program puts Brazilian rainforests ...
Where: San FranciscoCost: $20 General, $12 Members, $7 Students
Mega-DroughtTrends indicate that a major drought event is looming in the not-too-distant future. In as few as three decades we could experience conditions that would make the Dust Bowl of the 1930s seem like an oasis. Efforts to conserve, while admirable and desperately necessary, may already be too late. This ...
Where: Mountain ViewCost: Free
Mysterious Sounds of the 'Silent' SeaIntroducing the public to the beautiful sights beneath the sea, Jacques Cousteau called it "The Silent World." But the ocean --- and our Bay – are filled with a fantastic cacophany of sound. Most sea animals -- from whales and dolphins to lobsters and shrimp - use acoustics to navigate and communicate.With fascinating ...
Where: AlbanyCost: 0
Earth Under WaterNational Geographic explores the potential effects of sea level rise on our civilization over the next few centuries. "Earth Under Water" explains the science behind the prediction of sea level rise and shows what will happen if the levels rise with increasing speed. Then, we fast forward to the 23rd ...
Speaker: Jason Adams is a Physician in Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine at UC Davis Health System. His research is focused on host-pathogen genomics and clinical informatics.
Presented by marine biologist and ocean advocate David McGuire, Founder and Director of Shark Stewards. As Californians, we have a special responsibility for ocean conservation. Shark Stewards protects sharks and critical marine habitat for the health of our oceans through science, education and advocacy. Come learn about the challenges sharks ...
For years, scientists believed that the adolescent brain was essentially an adult one – only with fewer miles on it. But revolutionary neurology and neuroscience have revealed that vitally important brain development occurs during the teen years. Internationally-renowned neurologist – and mother of two boys – Dr. Frances E. Jensen ...
Where: San FranciscoCost: $27 - $37
'Machines of Loving Grace: The Quest for Common Ground Between Humans and Robots' As robots are increasingly integrated into modern society--on the battlefield and the road, in business, education, and health--New York Times science writer John Markoff searches for an answer to one of the most important questions of our age: will these machines help us, or will they replace us?Copies will be ...
7:00-7:25: David Anderson(UC Berkeley/ SETI@home) on "An introduction to SETI@home"What if ordinary people's devices could do scientific computing? ...Read more7:25-7:50: Rachna Nivas(Chitresh Das Dance Company) on "India's Meditation in Motion: Pushing Physical, Mental, and Spiritual Boundaries through Kathak Dance"A North Indian classical dance technique in which the performer ...
Where: BerkeleyCost: Free
History of Water in Silicon ValleyThis presentation by the Santa Clara Valley Water District will showcase the past, present and future of water in Silicon Valley. It will take a close look at what we have done to ensure a reliable supply of safe, clean water throughout the years as population density has increased and ...
Where: CupertinoCost: Free
Tide Talks by Kame RichardsRacers, cruisers, power boats, kayaks, and swimmers will see and learn how the tide currents move on San Francisco Bay. Reservations a must, call 707-759-2045 or email jimtantillo@comcast.net
Where: SausalitoCost: $15 cash only.
Discovering RaptorsRaptors frequently evoke admiration because of their power, their eye-catching flight, and their noble bearing. They display a fascinating array of behaviors-some obviously instinctive, others clearly learned. But why do they act as they do? Helen Macdonald, in her memorable book H is for Hawk, demonstrates one way to get ...
Predicting the Electromagnetic Signatures of Compact Object Mergers The ejection of radioactive material during, or immediately following, the merger of two neutron stars (or a neutron star and a black hole) can give rise to optical/infrared emission similar to, but dimmer and briefer than that of an ordinary supernova. These transients (called kilonovae) are promising electromagnetic counterparts to ...
Where: Menlo ParkCost: Free
A wake-up call for California: Innovations in earthquake preparednessNo one likes to be reminded that there's a 99.7% chance that California will experience a major earthquake in the next 30 years. But a little preparedness can go a long way and a new mobile-friendly website called QuakeCAFE can help.We invite you to join us for a public forum ...
Where: BerkeleyCost: Free (pre-register at web site)
Can plants really travel? Marvel at botanical fruit and seed adaptations, such as slingshots, parachutes, hitchhikers, helicopters and other mechanisms that propel plant seeds around the Garden.Register at web site
From animal attraction to human nature, celebrate the science behind the things that make us blush at this special Valentine's Day edition of NightLife.From animal attraction to human nature, celebrate the science behind the things that make us blush at this special Valentine's Day edition of NightLife.Start the night off ...
Where: San FranciscoCost: $15 General, $12 Members
7:00-7:25: Birgitta Whaley(Berkeley Quantum Information and Computation Center) on "What role does Quantum Mechanics play in Biology?Advances in nanotechnology are driving the development of microscopic studies of biological phenomena...Read more7:25-7:50: Rieko Yajima(Stanford/ Design and AAAS) on "Catalyzing scientific innovation using design-thinking paradigms"Design Thinking Paradigms (DTP) have successfully been ...
Where: StanfordCost: Free
Imaging the Dark UniverseThe Kavli Institute for Particle Astrophysics and Cosmology, or KIPAC, is an independent laboratory of Stanford University. Initiated with a generous grant from Fred Kavli and The Kavli Foundation, KIPAC is housed at the SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory and in the Varian Physics and Physics Astrophysics buildings on the Stanford ...
Where: Santa CruzCost: Free
Tide Talks by Kame RichardsRacers, cruisers, power boats, kayaks, and swimmers will see and learn how the tide currents move on San Francisco Bay. Reservations a must, call 707-759-2045 or email jimtantillo@comcast.net
Where: SausalitoCost: $15 cash only.
Understanding Bipolar DepressionThis talk will provide a broad overview of bipolar depression in adults, with respect to diagnostic challenges and current treatment strategies for this condition.Speaker: Shefali Miller, MD, Clinical Assistant Professor, Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University Medical Center
Pseudoscience is pervasive in the fitness industry, from extraordinary claims to common misconceptions. Bodybuilding, itself a rather extraordinary claim, is often worse. This talk addresses common misconceptions and excuses about fitness derived from the presenter's research and journey to fitness. The central message is that tools of science, evidence, and critical thinking ...
Where: BerkeleyCost: Free
Friday, 02/12/16
Green FridayOur speaker will be Alice Friedemann, who has been writing about energy and other resources since 2000. Her writing can be found at her http://energyskeptic.com/ web site. Virtually everything in our homes, everything in our stores, got there on a truck. Prior to that, 90 percent of those items were ...
Join Ranger Aimee in exploring the less-traveled trails at Muir Woods. From where the popular Main Trail diverges with the Fern Creek Trail, we will take the one less traveled by to Camp Alice Eastwood Trail.The cascades, ferns, and fragrant tanoaks of this quiet side canyon of Muir Woods will ...
Hike the Mallard Slough TrailLook for birds, mammals, and animal tracks as we explore along the water's edge on this 3.7-mile nature walk. Bring binoculars and your favorite field guide to help enjoy the views. Have at least one liter of water, snacks, and appropriate clothing. This hike runs rain or shine. Led by ...
Where: AlvisoCost: Free
Little Explorers Workshop: Tails and WorkshopsMake take-home projects and do activities with our menagerie of animals, including rabbits, turtles, and birds. Young children develop an appreciation of living things and spark their curiosity with a new animal theme each week.
Where: BerkeleyCost: $65-80
Marshlands of DreamsJoin Paul Mueller on a 1-mile walk of the LaRiviere Marsh Trail to find traces of the past. Prior to marsh restoration, learn how Californians utilized the area for farming, quarrying, salt production, and transportation. There will opportunities for bird watching as well.
Where: FremontCost: Free
Open House at the Marine Science InstitutePlease bring your friends and family to visit our site. Feel fre to explore our discovery classrooms, view live fish and invertebrates in our aquarium, and pack a picnic lunch to nibble on whilst enjoing our Bay front location. Staff will be around to answer questions and give you a ...
Where: Redwood CityCost: Free
Drones: Love 'em or Hate 'em...? Tom Gregory graduated from Cal Berkely and retired from NASA-Ames Research Center after 37 years where he worked with the wind tunnels, simulators, computers, and flight test aircraft. Much of that work was on remotely piloted vehicles (RPVs) or "drones" as they are called now. He is currently studying and ...
Where: San CarlosCost: Free with admission
Mad Science Valentine: Elixirs, hearts, essences, and immortaliTEASJoin us for a Valentine's-Themed Day of Science!Drop in throughout the day! Apertif, 11-11:30am (Ken). Kick off the day with some caffeinated potions.The Anatomy of a Broken Heart: For all the Future Mad Scientists, and Medical Professionals who can't get enough lab and dissection time... 11-1pm, $10 (Alan). In Honor ...
Where: OaklandCost: TBD
MicroBioblitz at PLACETardigrades, Diatoms and Nematodes oh my! We'll use microscopes and smartphone magnifying lenses to explore the wonderments of the microscopic world at PLACE for Sustainable Living in Oakland.Have you ever wondered about all of the small organisms that are around you all the time? Finally... you'll have a chance to ...
Where: OaklandCost: Free
Water DetectivesIn Matamoros, Mexico, a severe water shortage led to a one-of-a-kind solution: The city put local children in charge of changing adults' attitudes and habits. Thousands of schoolchildren were enlisted as "water detectives." Educated about resource conservation, they were encouraged to discuss proper water usage with adults and were authorized ...
Where: Palo AltoCost: Free
Mega-DroughtTrends indicate that a major drought event is looming in the not-too-distant future. In as few as three decades we could experience conditions that would make the Dust Bowl of the 1930s seem like an oasis. Efforts to conserve, while admirable and desperately necessary, may already be too late. This ...
Where: Palo AltoCost: Free
Earth Under WaterNational Geographic explores the potential effects of sea level rise on our civilization over the next few centuries. "Earth Under Water" explains the science behind the prediction of sea level rise and shows what will happen if the levels rise with increasing speed. Then, we fast forward to the 23rd ...
Where: Palo AltoCost: Free
Parent's Night OffChocolate & Roses – check! Romantic dinner reservation – booked! Do not disturb sign – printed! Child care – uh oh! Let us look after your kids for you, while you take some quality time for yourselves! Even though they are for kids, Parent's Nights Off are designed with adults ...
Where: OaklandCost: $45.00 per child and $30.00 for each add'l sibling
The Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History is excited to open its doors for an adults-only (18+)* evening event. This February discover the secret love lives of animals, from fascinating romantic rituals to the science of attracting mates. Grab a drink, enjoy salsa dance lessons, and take a closer look ...
Where: Pacific GroveCost: $20 General, $15 Members
Sunday, 02/14/16
Marine Mammal Parents and PupsIn preparation for Valentine's Day, this month we celebrate love under the sea with Marine Mammal Parents and Pups in a fun, educational way for both kids and adults. We recommend teaming our free classroom program with a Docent-led tour at 11am, 1pm or 3pm for a truly immersive marine mammal experience. Read ...
Where: SausalitoCost: Free
Come inside i-GATE: The Innovation Hub Open Housei-GATE is a State-sponsored iHub (innovation hub) and startup incubator. i-GATE's partners include the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory and Sandia National Laboratories, as well as the cities of Livermore, Danville, Pleasanton, and Dublin.Through technology showcases, startup education, and shared lab and workspaces, i-GATE is a key partner in bringing lab technology ...
Where: LivermoreCost: Free
'A Nubian Walked into a Christian Bar at Philae and Asked...'"A Nubian Walked into a Christian Bar at Philae and Asked..." What can the ancient graffiti at Philae in Aswan tell us about how different groups interacted as Egypt began to Christianize? Dr. Cruz-Uribe will discuss the Christian versus Nubian graffiti to give a sense of what the different groups were dealing with during this process, based on his ...
Where: BerkeleyCost: Free; donations are welcomed.
Valentine's Day Amphibian Walk + Happy HourCalifornia Center for Natural History and East Bay Regional Parks are teaming up to bring you a Valentine's Day treat - nature walk meets happy hour! Join us for an evening tour of Wildcat Creek's amorous amphibians, then mingle with fellow nature lovers at the Grizzly Bar and Grill (open ...
