As our partners in discovery and exploration, the Space Science Institute and Anythink Brighton will host Dr. Thomas Bogdan, director of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association’s Space Weather Prediction Center, for an exciting lecture, discussion and hands-on activities on Saturday, Jan. 16, from 11 am-12:30 pm. Dr. Thomas Bogdan is an international leader in space weather research and predictions and will share his knowledge during this incredible program for all ages.

Surrounded by our protective atmosphere and magnetosphere, we on Earth have been shielded from the worst aspects of severe space weather for millennia. But with our increasing daily dependence on sophisticated advanced technologies, like near-Earth orbiting satellites, GPS, and the incredibly complex power distribution grids, we are increasingly vulnerable to the impacts of severe space weather. Likewise, as we and other countries lead efforts to become a space-faring civilization, our understanding of the space environment will be the difference between mission success and failure. The Jan. 16 talk will cover these and many other aspects of how space weather will affect our national security and global economic prosperity.

This event is part of Discover Space, an exhibition designed by the Space Science Institute. Discover Space features two exhibit areas: Space Storms introduces audiences to space weather topics such as sunspots, coronal mass ejections, and magnetic storms, and Star Quest explores how stars are born and how they die. The exhibit will be on display through February 27, 2010.

Event Details

When: Saturday, Jan. 16, 2010, 11 am-12:30 pm

Where: Anythink Brighton, 327 E. Bridge St., Brighton, CO 80601

Who: Dr. Thomas Bogdan, director, NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center

The Space Science Institute, a Boulder-based non-profit organization, aims to integrate research with education and public outreach, promoting inquiry-based learning and science literacy. Its programs include traveling museum exhibitions, award-winning educational media, hands-on teaching resources and activities, and educator workshops.