Science On Tap is a monthly series of informal talks led by scientists that explore current research topics and the importance of science in our daily life. Each talk takes place in a relaxed pub atmosphere where communication flows freely between scientists and the public. Co-presented by Skidmore’s Environmental Studies and Sciences Department and Sustainable Saratoga, these monthly opportunities for discussion reflect the unique intellectual culture of the greater Capital Region and promote scientific literacy.

The next Science on Tap is Wednesday, April 29 @ 7:00 pm.

Admission is free and all ages are welcome. Come early to get a bite to eat. The talk will start promptly at 7:00pm.

Title: Could that Star Already be Dead? Why Relativity Says You Can’t Ask.

Description: The theory of Special Relativity is now over 120 years old. Its conclusions about how time slows down in GPS satellites and about how many particles reach Earth’s surface have been confirmed countless times. But what relativity says about the nature of space and time is still so deeply counterintuitive that our lack of intuition can make us wrong even about things that seem obvious. In this talk, I’ll first introduce the basic ideas of Special Relativity. I’ll then discuss the often repeated story that some of the starlight we see might be from long-dead stars, and explain why that story is asking a question that doesn’t actually have an answer.

Bio: Jesse Ernst is an Associate Professor and the Chair of the Department of Physics at U Albany. He conducts research in the area of elementary particle physics. Jesse and his family reside in Saratoga Springs.