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The High Energy Universe

View the sky through an x-ray telescope and the conception of the universe changes dramatically. Black holes are best seen in x-rays, because impinging gas collides with the black hole at near light speed, resulting in intense x-ray and gamma ray emission.

The Clockwork God: Isaac Newton and the Mechanical Universe

Isaac Newton saw his demonstration of the regularity of the universe as having great religious significance. Newton’s ideas were initially seen as very supportive of religion; yet within 50 years, they were being seen in a very different light.

How Special Is Our Universe?

Theories of the multiverse suggest that life-containing universes are incredibly rare. We live in one of these, whether by cosmological natural selection or by the consequences of a theory yet to be formulated.

Watching the Heavens: Astronomy and the Meaning of Life

What did the sky-watchers of the ancient world think about the night sky, and its implications for human existence? Moving on to the great discoveries of Copernicus, Kepler, and Galileo, we will consider the basic science and ask about the deeper significance of these discoveries.

Are We Alone In The Universe?

The answer to ‘are we alone?’ affects our claim for being special in the cosmos, and we shall never know unless we search.

How Were The Stars Formed?

Professor Silk, Gresham Professor of Astronomy, opens his lecture series with the question 'How Were The Stars Formed?'

King George VI

George VI was the unexpected king. His human qualities reinforced the spirit of social solidarity which helped Britain to victory in war and recovery in peace.

Observing the Dark Ages

An exploration of a time when there were no stars or galaxies, and the universe was transparent - how were the first indications of the state of the universe in the dark ages discovered?

King Edward VIII

Edward VIII reigned for just 325 days. The history of his reign is in large part the history of the abdication. However, as Prince of Wales, Edward had been the first heir to the throne to find a genuine role for himself, as a spokesmen for the ex-service generation.

The Art of Astrophotography

The book launch for Ian Morison's new book The Art of Astrophotography.

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