Event box

Pursuit of Discovery: Lisa Meitner & Nuclear Fission (Main) In-Person
How does nuclear physicist Lise Meitner’s pioneering discovery of nuclear fission over a century ago continue to inspire astronomers to uncover the last “star stuff” secrets of the early universe? Through the theatrical presentation of “Pursuit of Discovery,” Professor Anna Frebel, Division Head of Astrophysics at MIT, will bring this groundbreaking discovery to life with her portrayal of Lise Meitner.
- Date:
- Saturday, September 28, 2024
- Time:
- 3:00pm - 4:15pm
- Time Zone:
- Eastern Time - US & Canada (change)
- Location:
- Lecture Hall
- Branches:
- Main Library
- Audience:
- Adult
- Categories:
- Performance STEAM
Following the 25-minute living history performance, Frebel will discuss her own research on ancient stars and the cosmic origins of heavy elements like gold and silver. Produced in collaboration with STEM on Stage, this program is for adults and children ages 10 & older.
ABOUT: Anna Frebel is an astronomer and professor of physics at MIT who studies ancient 13-billion-year-old stars in the Milky Way. Her research focuses on how chemical elements are formed in stars, supernova explosions, and merging neutron stars, as well as the evolution of the Milky Way. Frebel’s internationally recognized work involves using the world’s largest telescopes to discover these ancient relic stars from the early universe, as detailed in her popular book Searching For The Oldest Stars. In addition to her research, Frebel is dedicated to mentoring aspiring scientists. She founded a course on leadership strategies and professional skills for graduate students and postdocs in STEM fields and is an active member of Homeward Bound, a global leadership initiative for women in science. As the Chief Science Officer for STEM on Stage (www.stemonstage.org), Frebel helps promote STEM outreach through living history and immersive media.
For more information, visit www.stemonstage.org or www.annafrebel.com.
This event is part of Cambridge Science Festival, a celebration showcasing the leading edge in science, technology, engineering, art and math (STEAM). A multifaceted, multicultural event, the Festival makes science accessible, interactive and fun, highlighting the impact of STEAM in all our lives.
The City of Cambridge does not discriminate, including on the basis of disability. We may provide auxiliary aids and services, written materials in alternative formats, and reasonable modifications in policies and procedures to people with disabilities. For more information contact us at library@cambridgema.gov, 617-349-4032 (voice), or via relay at 711.