From Venus to Pluto: Windblown Sands Throughout Our Solar System: First Friday Astronomy Event

Friday, May 6, 2022, 7:30 p.m.
Science and Education Building, Room 112

Boise State Physics presents “From Venus to Pluto: Windblown Sands Throughout Our Solar System,” an overview of the wind-shaped features of the solar system, with Dr. Christy Swann, U.S. Naval Research Laboratory.

Beaches and deserts on Earth are constantly changing as wind redistributes sand grains to build dunes or emit dust. The process of windblown sand doesn’t just call Earth home, but other planets throughout our solar system – building dunes, emitting dust and providing clues to the history of our solar system. Dr. Christy Swann will walk through planetary landscapes that have been shaped by the wind and discuss some exciting new findings from rover, lander and orbital observations from Venus to Pluto.

For those that cannot attend in person, the lecture will be live-streamed on the Astronomy at Boise State Physics Youtube Channel. Those attending the live-stream are welcome and encouraged to ask questions via chat.

After the lecture we will stargaze in Boise State’s observatory, weather permitting. An indoor planetarium may be set up in case stargazing is not an option.

These events are funded by your generous donations. You can donate on the Boise State website.