Dark Energy and Beyond

Learn about the latest groundbreaking discoveries in the universe from Dr. Karl Gebhardt, Department Chair of Astronomy in the College of Natural Sciences. Astronomers at The University of Texas have been at the center of many of these findings, including results from the McDonald Observatory’s Hobby-Eberly Telescope (HET) in West Texas.

Dr. Gebhardt will highlight some of the most profound implications of these discoveries, with a focus on the HET Dark Energy Experiment, which is measuring the universe's expansion rate from 11 billion years ago. Explore some of the most profound mysteries in science, including how the Universe began, how galaxies first formed, why the Universe is expanding at an accelerated rate, and the nature of spacetime itself.

This exciting presentation will also touch on how advancements in machine learning are accelerating the rate of discovery, ushering in a new era of understanding about how planets formed and how life began. Don’t miss this opportunity to journey through the cosmos with an expert guide and explore the museum’s special exhibit: “Big Eye on Dark Skies: Hobby-Eberly Telescope”.

This free program will be followed by a Q&A and a light reception. An RSVP is required.