Published on Physics (https://www.physics.uoguelph.ca)

Home > The role exploring Mars plays in unraveling Earth's origin story: a physics perspective

The role exploring Mars plays in unraveling Earth's origin story: a physics perspective

Submitted by Krider on September 5th, 2019 2:07 PM
Date: 
Thursday, November 28th, 2019 4:00 PM
Location: 

Science Complex Atrium, University of Guelph

Speaker

Dr. Scott VanBommel [1]

The application of physics fundamentals to planetary science problems has taken this Guelph physics graduate off the southern edge of Google maps in search of space rocks, to Mars as part of multiple rover missions, and nearly above the Karman line as a shortlisted astronaut with the Canadian Space Agency.

It was only a mere 50-60 years ago that extensive canal networks on Mars were thought to provide clear evidence for advanced intelligent life right at Earth's doorstep. We now know this is not true, thanks in large part to the science-driven exploration by robotic probes sent to Mars in the decades since. From the first grainy black-and-white photos acquired by Mariner 4, to the complex scientific suite of instruments on today's spacecraft, our understanding of Mars continues to evolve. As we explore our iconic red neighbour, we learn Earth and Mars were likely very similar in the early solar system, diverging around the time life took hold on Earth. In this talk we will discuss the implications of this and the various ways physics furthers our understanding of Mars' evolution, both from the direct study of martian meteorites and through the active exploration of the surface of Mars.

Physics Public Talk on Facebook [2]

Keywords: 
STEM Week

Department Resources

Course Outlines*
*Please check Courselink for most up-to-date outline as they are subject to change.

Physics Tutorials

Machine Shop & Requisition Form

Poster Boards

NMR Centre

The Observatory is not available for public visits at this time.

Administrative Links

Campus Directory
Gryph Mail
Physics Intranet
Employee Portal
Illness or Injury Incident Report
Undergraduate Calendar
Graduate Calendar
Academic Integrity
CUPE 3913

Contact Us

Department Chair: Dr. Stefan Kycia
Administrative Officer: Rachel Baker
IT Help: cepsit@uoguelph.ca
Other Inquiries: physinfo@uoguelph.ca

Department of Physics, Main Office
MacNaughton Building, Room 207
1-519-824-4120 x 52261

Courier to:
488 Gordon Street
Physics, Science Complex, Rm 1110
Guelph, ON | N1G 2W1


Source URL:https://www.physics.uoguelph.ca/events/2019/11/role-exploring-mars-plays-unraveling-earths-origin-story-physics-perspective

Links
[1] http://www.scottvanbommel.com/ [2] https://www.facebook.com/events/569297546944952/