Photo courtesy of Dr. Pål Brekke
Norway in the 21st Century Luncheon
with Norwegian Solar Physicist Pål Brekke April 21 at 12 PM
Seasons 52 Fresh Grill at Tysons Corner Center, McLean, VA
RSVP below by April 17 (limited spots)
Price: $34 for members, $39 for non-members/guests
The Beautiful Northern Lights and the Dangerous Space Weather
What is more beautiful on a cold winter’s night than catching a glimpse of the northern lights or “aurora borealis” dancing across the sky? This stunning phenomenon is deeply embedded in the mythology of many cultures. A little more than a hundred years ago, an eccentric Norwegian scientist, Kristian Birkeland, realized that the sun bombards the Earth with particles creating the aurora. Today we observe the sun from satellites and can predict the Northern lights. However, solar storms can also create havoc on our ever-increasing technology-based society. Just recently, a solar storm knocked down 40 of the SpaceX’ Starling satellites.
Dr. Brekke will take the audience through the history of this phenomenon from ancient times to modern space-based science. He will also show pictures from his recent visit to Svalbard where the world largest optical aurora observatory is located and where NASA launches rockets into the daytime aurora.
The lecture will include clips from the award-winning documentary «The Northern Lights – a Magic Experience» as well as new stunning real time video of the Northern Lights. The best places to experience the aurora will be revealed.
Seasons 52 is conveniently located in Tysons Corner Mall on the lower level. There is ample parking, and the location is accessible by metro (Silver Line). Here is a link to their website where you will find the address and directions: https://www.seasons52.com/locations/va/mclean/mclean-tysons-corner/4515
Included in the price is one out of three entrees, Mini Indulgence Desserts, Coffee, Tea (iced), and soft drinks. Please pick one the options when you RSVP.
REGISTER
Deadline: Register by Sunday, April 17, 2022