SYDNEY SCIENCE FORUM

Presented by Dr Natalie Batalha
Kepler Mission Scientist, NASA Ames Research Center
and Professor Tim Bedding
Head of the School of Physics, the University of Sydney

The Kepler space telescope was built to answer the question 'how common are planets like Earth?'

The high precision required to detect small planets like Earth also enables Kepler to see the signature of standing sound waves inside stars (stellar oscillations) caused by star quakes, which in turn enables us to probe the interiors of stars. This study of "asteroseismology" works in a similar way to the study of earthquakes in the interior of Earth.

Kepler has revolutionised the investigation of planets and stars since its launch in 2009, finding over 2000 planet candidates and detecting stellar oscillations in several thousands of stars. This information can tell us how planets and stars form and change, with broad implications for our understanding of how the Sun will grow old and the evolution of our Milky Way galaxy.

Venue map: Eastern Avenue Auditorium

*While the lecture is free, seat bookings are essential as places are limited. To make a booking, complete the online booking form or email with your name, the names of the lectures you wish to attend, and number of seats required (limited to 5 per booking except for school groups). Bookings can also be made by calling (02) 9351 3021 between 10am and 3pm.