Are We Alone?

Steve Tonkin


Region:
Anywhere
Notice Period:
Emergency (maybe less than one week's notice)
Type:
Astronomy and Cosmology
Fee:
Paid: £40 + travel expenses (+ overnight accommodation for long distances)
Category:
Science
Updated:
14th January 2021

In 1961, Frank Drake introduced his eponymous equation that described the likelihood of finding other communicating civilisations. In the half-century since then, we have a much better idea of the likely values of some of the parameters. This talk examines the state of play with respect to the Search for Extra-Terrestrial Intelligence and potentially habitable exoplanets, and examines our current understanding of the likelihood of there being similar planets to Earth. It "reboots" the Drake Equation in the light of these developments.

Normally about 40 minutes plus Q&A. Can be varied either way, if required.

Views: 1488 | Enquiries: 10

About Steve Tonkin

I am a Fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society and have authored many articles and several books on practical aspects of astronomy. I taught astronomy to adults and children for more than 40 years. I am the Dark Skies Advisor to both the Federation of Astronomical Societies and the International Dark Sky Reserve on the Cranborne Chase National Landscape, and split my time between these and doing astronomical outreach. As well as astronomical societies in Britain and abroad, I frequently speak to Rotary and Probus clubs, U3A groups, and schools/youth organisations. I have a monthly column in BBC Sky at Night Magazine, for which I also write equipment and book reviews.

I can deliver talks remotely over Zoom, Webex or MS Teams.

If you would like to see if I am available on the date you want, you can view my Bookings Calendar at https://astunit.com/talks.php

Fee (but not travel expenses from Fordingbridge, Hampshire) may be waived or reduced for charitable organisations supporting children or the environment, cubs/scouts/guides, etc. Ask for details.


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