Reel Science: Fireball

From directors Werner Herzog and Clive Oppenheimer, “Fireball” takes viewers into the heart of a deep mystery. Over billions of years, extraterrestrial bombardments have reshaped the very nature of our planet, causing species to perish or flourish — and perhaps even seeding the initial building blocks for life on Earth. Today we can still hear the echo of these meteor impacts, ringing through culture, mythology and scientific research.

Before the film, join UT natural sciences students and astronomers for a panel discussion about their own journeys into discovery. Stick around after the film for a Q&A session and viewings through telescopes during one of the best times of the year to catch a glimpse of meteors streaking through the night sky during the Geminids meteor shower.

5:30 p.m. — Doors open

6-6:30 p.m. — “So You Want to Be a Scientist” discussion for youth with WiSTEM student ambassadors and Keely Finkelstein, Astronomy Professor at UT Austin, AT&T Education Room

6:40 p.m. — “Fireball” screening, Rollins Theatre

8:20 p.m. — Post film discussion and audience Q&A with Keely Finkelstein

8:50-9:45 p.m. — Telescope viewing with UT Austin Department of Astronomy and Austin Astronomical Society, Long Center circle drive grassy area 

At Reel Science hear from leading researchers and experts and enjoy science-themed films through a partnership with The University of Texas at Austin College of Natural Sciences. Each event features a presentation from a UT scientist and a science-themed documentary from Sandbox Films, the Oscar-nominated production studio that illuminates the art and beauty of scientific inquiry: humankind’s weird, messy, brilliant way of navigating the world.