Lecture and observation of the moon and Jupiter
Habitable Planets Beyond the Solar System
Ignasi Ribas (Scientist at the Institute of Space Sciences (CSIC))
23 November, 2009 - 19.00 to 21.00
'Santiago Grisolía' Auditorium and 'Paseo de los Cipreses'. 'Príncipe Felipe' Science Museum.
Description of the activity
After centuries of speculation, science is taking the first steps to determine whether we on earth are the only living beings in the universe or - as has often been the case - we do not really enjoy a privileged position.
One of the most active areas in astronomy today has to do with the search for planets that are outside our solar system. These are known as exoplanets, and scientists are most eager to study them. In recent years, enormous progress has been made in the development of new instruments which have allowed us to discover about three hundred exoplanets, and revealed a wealth of planetary systems whose existence we would never have imagined.
But the future will surely be even more fascinating, when space missions that are currently being planned make it possible to discover exoplanets that are similar to the earth, and even speculate with the possibilities that such planets harbour forms of life.
In his lecture, Dr. Ribas will review the current state of research into exoplanets, and present some of the most relevant steps to be taken in the immediate future in this field, particularly with regard to the possible habitability of planets beyond our solar system.
Astronomical observation: The moon and Jupiter.
Observation conducted by: Ángel Flores Martínez, president of the Valencian Association of Astronomy.
Observation of the moon three days after it is new, with only 39% of its visible surface lighted up. An excellent opportunity to observe ash-grey light. Jupiter is located less than three degrees to the south. This, the largest planet in the solar system, at a distance of 750 million kilometres from earth, will be seen shining brightly. During the observation session, the eclipse of the Europa satellite under the shadow of Jupiter will begin. Only three degrees to the east, Neptune, the planet that is furthest from earth, at a distance of 4,300 million kilometres, will appear in the form of a tiny, bright blue disc.
Programme
18.30: Accreditation of participants.
19.00: Lecture begins in the Auditorium.
20.00: End of lecture.
20.15: Observation begins in the 'Mirador Norte' [North Observation Point].
21.00: End of sessions.
