University of Lethbridge physicists and astronomers are marking the UNESCO International Year of Light and Light-based Technologies by bringing in a host of experts whose work involves light.
Light, or electromagnetic radiation, is made up of particles called photons but physicists describe light as both a wave and a particle. The electromagnetic spectrum includes visible and invisible light, from rainbows to radio waves. The study of light has led to technologies that have revolutionized the world, including light bulbs, telescopes and smart phones, to name a few.
The celebration kicks off Wednesday, Nov. 4 with a talk by Dr. Per Jensen, a professor at the University of Wuppertal, Germany, from 2 to 3 p.m. in Room C610, University Hall. A workshop on atmospheric remote sensing takes place Thursday at Andy’s Place, with eight presenters, either live or through videoconference, from around the world. The celebration wraps up Friday with a talk by Dr. Brant Billinghurst, a staff scientist with Canadian Light Source Inc. in Saskatoon, from 10 to 11 a.m. in Room B730, University Hall.
A media availability has been scheduled for 10:30 a.m. Thursday at Andy’s Place, AH100. Experts in attendance will be able to discuss the importance of the International Year of Light, their research activities and the importance of continued research into the nature of light.
In addition, on Nov. 10, U of L physics graduate students will be visiting local elementary, middle and high school classes to engage in discussions about physics and to conduct physics experiments. They’ll be joining other physics students around the world for the IAPS (International Association of Physics Students) School Day.
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Contact:
Caroline Zentner, public affairs advisor
403-394-3975 or 403-795-5403 (cell)
