Free public lecture: Was Mars ever alive?

Assoc. Prof. Victor Gostin, M.Sc. (Melb), PhD (ANU)

Sunday 14th September 2014 at 6.00 pm

Nova Systems, 27-31 London Road, Mile End South  SA  5031

Abstract: Exciting discoveries are continually being made on our sister planet, Mars. NASA's rovers plus orbiting satellites have revealed many, often unexpected features. Bright ice exists only 50cm below the surface.  Martian river networks formed under semiarid climates, when floods alternated with long dry spells. Liquid surface water lasted at least 10,000 years. Strange vertical shafts cutting through lava flows may be windows into lava tunnels. Could these contain life? The newly arrived Curiosity is already increasing our understanding of Martian long history.

Bio: Victor Gostin is a retired Associate Professor and an Honorary Visiting Research Fellow in Geology and Geophysics at the University of Adelaide, Australia. A graduate of Melbourne University with a PhD from the ANU, Canberra, Victor lectured in earth sciences at Adelaide University from 1970 to 2001. His scientific interests include the origins and evolution of the solar system and of life, meteorite impacts, earth history, environmental geoscience and the effects of natural phenomena on the course of human history. His other interests include sketching the Australian outback. Victor is keen to popularise earth and planetary sciences to the community through lectures and radio. As a result of recognising and proving that a unique rock layer in the ancient rocks of the Flinders Ranges, South Australia, was derived from a giant meteorite impact, he has been honoured by having an asteroid named after him (3640GOSTIN).

 

A warm welcome extended to anyone interested in Mars or space exploration

Feel free to join us after the presentation. If people would like to have a meal, they can be  ordered at affordable prices.

To book or for further information contact Marcia on 0417 800 956 or mt01@adam.com.au

Monthly meetings held on first Sunday, but check website for updates. 

October meeting: Sunday 12th October

Continent: 
Oceania
Country: 
Australia
State: 
South Australia