Why looking at the stars is actually looking back in time
In short: Explore the profound reality that cosmic observations reveal the Universe as it once was, not as it is today. This lecture examines how the speed of light shapes our understanding of cosmic history.
In this Gresham College lecture, astrophysicist Katherine Blundell explains how the speed of light governs our perception of the cosmos. Because information from outer space travels at a finite speed, observing distant objects allows us to witness the Universe's evolution and changes over time.
Blundell, a Professor of Astrophysics at Oxford University, shares insights into her research on black hole material accretion and the propagation of relativistic jets. Her work also involves global educational initiatives, such as the Global Jet Watch, which uses school-based observatories in countries like Chile, India, Australia, and South Africa to monitor black hole systems and nova explosions.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: Frozen in Time? - Katherine Blundell
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