Reel Science: How Deep is Your Love & Special Live Stream From Research Vessel Falkor

On November 20, Reel Science joins Schmidt Ocean Institute to bring a special Ship-to-Shore stream from their research vessel R/V Falkor (too). UT Austin marine biologist Brett Baker, Co-director of the Center for Planetary Science and Habitability, will be leading an expedition to sample microbes deep in the ocean off the coast of Uruguay aboard the vessel. Brett and the Falkor (too) team will lead a tour of the ship, its labs and the instruments that are being used to understand the ocean depths. Following the virtual tour and screening of “How Deep is Your Love,” Baker will rejoin the audience to discuss his research and his quest to understand more about microbial communities in the ocean depths on the way to answering one of the greatest mysteries in biology — the series of events that led to the origin of complex life, including us.

5:30 p.m. — Doors open

6:30 p.m. — Ship-to-Shore stream: R/V Falkor (too) tour

7:00 p.m. — How Deep Is Your Love screening

8:10-8:45 p.m. — Ship-to-Shore stream: Science talk & audience Q&A with Brett Baker

“How Deep is Your Love” follows biologists as they explore the deep sea, where 70% of our planet lies hidden. As they uncover mesmerizing creatures and ecosystems thriving in darkness, they must also grapple with the prospect of deep-sea mining in this untouched wilderness. This film weaves wonder with urgency, challenging viewers to balance the drive for resources with the intrinsic value of an ecosystem. Journey through a breathtaking realm, on screen and with a Texas scientist, livestreaming to connect you with the frontiers of discovery. 

Schmidt Ocean Institute was established in 2009 to advance oceanographic research, discovery and knowledge, and catalyze the sharing of information about the oceans. The institute’s R/V Falkor (too) offers scientists from around the world access to state-of-the-art marine research technology at no cost in exchange for making their research available to the public. Schmidt Ocean Institute was established because the cost of going to sea to conduct research is expensive — the single most expensive element of an ocean-going researcher's grant. The institute’s vessel R/V Falkor (too) is an international ship that does not have a home port and therefore is not tied to any geographic location — presenting an opportunity to collaborate with and support international partners, providing them with access to cutting-edge marine technology, space for at-sea research and a platform for testing new technologies. 

Each event in the Reel Science series features an in-person presentation 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.