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Renowned astronomer Dr. Vera C. Rubin of the Carnegie Institution of Washington will present What’s the Matter with the Universe: Galaxies & Dark Matter, an illustrated non-technical lecture Wednesday, May 2, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. in the Smithwick Theater at Foothill College in Los Altos Hills. No science background is required and the lecture is appropriate for students age 13 and older. Admission is free and the public is invited to attend. This program is part of national series that celebrates the centennial of the American Astronomical Society.
One of the most distinguished astronomers in the U.S., Rubin has made significant contributions to many areas of understanding of galaxies. Her research in the 1970s first suggested that these vast islands of stars must include a great deal of unknown, unseen material, which astronomers now call "dark matter." She will describe our modern understanding of dark matter, which may make up the majority of the universe.

Rubin has devoted her professional career to the study of motions of gas and stars in galaxies. An enthusiastic lecturer, she has presented to audiences throughout the U.S. and abroad, including Chile, Europe, U.S.S.R., India, Japan and China. She interacts with students extensively from elementary grades through postdoctoral studies, and is active in supporting and enhancing the role of women in science.

Rubin has worked at the Carnegie Institution of Washington Department of Terrestrial Magnetism since 1965 and is a member of the U.S. National Academy of Sciences and the Pontifical Academy of Sciences. In 1993, President Clinton awarded her the National Medal of Science and nominated her to the National Science Board. In 1996, she received London’s Gold Medal of the Royal Astronomical Society—the first woman so honored since Carolyn Herschel in 1828. She holds a bachelor’s degree from Vassar, master’s degree from Cornell University and doctorate from Georgetown University. She also holds honorary degrees from numerous universities, including Harvard and Yale.

The lecture is presented as part of the 2nd Annual Silicon Valley Astronomy Lecture Series which is sponsored by Foothill College, NASA-Ames Research Center, SETI Institute and Astronomical Society of the Pacific.

Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis. Visitors must purchase a required campus parking permit for $2. Parking lots 1, 5, 6 and 7 provide easy access to the theater. From Interstate 280, exit El Monte Road and travel west.

For lecture information, call (650) 949-7888.


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