From the early universe to the interiors of stars, nature has been conducting nuclear experiments on a cosmic scale. This talk follows the journey of matter as it transforms through nuclear reactions, particularly in stellar cores and supernovae, connecting fundamental astrophysical processes and modern nuclear physics. We’ll also see how cosmic rays continue this process even today and the consequences for long-term human spaceflight.

Trevor is a staff scientist at the NASA Space Radiation Laboratory of Brookhaven National Laboratory working in nuclear and accelerator physics. Since joining the lab in 2019, they have advised and conducted countless studies that simulate the complex space radiation environment with teams from NASA, ESA, university researchers, and space-flight industry leaders.

Wow, another party already?   This is my favorite “program”, because we can all talk with each other all night long!  And eat and snack, of course…  You know the drill: bring “guilty pleasures” foods, or healthy foods and snacks and chips or desserts for all to share.  Bring something to drink to share as well. Be prepared for a lot of wonderful conversations! 

Winter is a difficult time to hold successful observing sessions, given the norm of cold temperatures, winds, and weather.  But we are going to be scheduling one Wednesday night a month to try and observe.  Come join us with your binoculars or bring your telescope, or come look through ours, if the weather cooperates.  If observing is cancelled, there will be a notice on the ASLI Mailing List for members. We need absolutely clear skies for observing and if it is cold and windy, assume we will not be meeting at all.