The Christmas Lecture on ‘The Mathematical Equations Behind Alien Life’ at The London Design & Engineering UTC attracts record interest from local learners.
On Monday 16th December, Dr Keith Mansfield, science writer and author of the Johnny Mackintosh series of novels addressed hundreds of learners at the LDE UTC in an inspirational and interactive seminar, discussing the mathematical equations behind the possibility of alien life. Keith who is currently collaborating with the European Space Agency (ESA) and the Norwegian Space Centre (NOSA or Norsk Romsenter) on expeditions to the Arctic circle to study the aurora and how it protects us from the bombardment of solar storms inspired our learners with his breadth of knowledge.
Addressing the learners in the seminar Keith talked about the latest research from SETI (the Search for Extra Terrestrial Intelligence), the importance of the Drake equation in determining the number of civilisations in our galaxy with which communication is possible, the importance of the fermi paradox when discussing alien life and the idea behind the Great Filter. In the lively Q&A session which followed, Keith addressed questions on how might we recognise aliens if they are so alien, how to travel to faraway star systems and how humans might survive the death of the Sun all the while trying to convince attendees that they were actually living in a simulation.
The seminar was attended by the Senior Leadership Team and many of the teachers at the College.
Hayder Khan, Head of Faculty for Mathematics and Economics and event organiser said “The ‘Christmas Lecture series’ initiative, now in its second year, is an excellent way for us link the study of mathematics to the real world around us and to stretch and challenge our learners beyond the scope of the syllabus."
Geoffrey Fowler, Principal of LDE UTC, said “This was an excellent Christmas Lecture. Using maths theory to determine the chances of alien life was off the radar. The mystery of alien life existence captivated us all whilst, applying mathematical probability allowed us all to realise and understand further mathematical equations in a fun and enjoyable way.”
Craig Whiteman, A Level Learner, who attended the seminar said “I was chuffed that I finally got to understand in a lot more detail the Drake equation and how it is used in conjunction with the fraction of those planets that develop intelligence and interstellar communication to predict the possibility of alien life. I’m grateful to the maths department for inviting Keith Mansfield to the College.”
