Annual Lecture 2010: Cosmology
Professor John Barrow FRS
'Cosmic Imagery'
Speaker: Prof. John D. Barrow FRS
Thursday 18th November 2010
The inaugural annual lecture for the Van Mildert College Trust took place on Thursday 18 November 2010 in the Ustinov Room. It was given by Professor John Barrow, alumnus of Van Mildert (1971-4) and currently Professor of Mathematical Sciences at the University of Cambridge. John was an appropriate choice not only because of his academic achievements (winner of the Templeton Prize in 2006 and a double Professor at Gresham College having been Professor of Astronomy and is now Professor of Geometry) But also because he is a founding and current Trustee. The Chairman of the Trust Prof Patrick O'Meara welcomed everyone to the event and hosted drinks and a small dinner after the lecture.
John's lecture was entitled "Cosmic Imagery" and with full and interesting illustrations he expounded the importance of image to the advancement of scientific ideas. His polymath approach encompassed the history of science and its influence of art and thinking.
He kindly answered questions at the end and was challenged by Sir Arnold Wolfendale (who taught John at Durham and was the 14th Astronomer Royal) about the importance of cosmic rays. Professors Mark Ward and Brian Tanner (fellow Trustee) also asked erudite questions that showed the calibre of the audience as well as the lecturer.
The Vice Chancellor attended and gave his heartfelt support for this event and the work of the Trust generally. Additionally the audience included two past Heads of House (Judy Turner and George Patterson) as well as past and present members of the SCR, MCR, JCR, Physics Department and Trustees.
The Trustees were grateful to the College staff and officers for organising the event including Veronique Peacock, the Trust Co-ordinator, and the catering staff.
An audio recording of the lecture is available.
- Prof_John_Barrow_Lecture_Van_Mildert.mp3 (last modified: 20 October 2011) - MP3 file
