April 2019: Lochaber to the Cosmos – CTR Wilson and cosmic rays

Talk by Dr Alexander Mackinnon, Senior Lecturer (Physics & Astronomy), University of Glasgow School of Physics and Astronomy.

“The study of cosmic rays, the oldest branch of high-energy astrophysics can be traced back to the Scottish highlands. Its origins are tied up with the work of CTR Wilson, Scotland’s first Physics Nobel Prizewinner, which in turn was inspired by his experiences at the Ben Nevis Observatory in September 1894. We will recall the tale of the Observatory, the invention of the cloud chamber, and the earliest suspicions and discoveries of radiation from space (“cosmic rays”). Finally we take a look at some current frontiers of cosmic ray science.”

Visitors are welcome at our meetings, but because of the popularity of our talks, visitors must register for a free ticket as visitor spaces are limited.

Visitors can also leave after the main talk or are welcome to stay on for the rest of the meeting. Tickets will go live 2 weeks before the event.