Space and time form the often unnoticed backdrop or fabric within which everything in our lives takes place. This presentation offers an overview of our modern understanding of the nature of this fabric, presented in a way that encourages a connection to your own perception of space and time. It includes an introduction to the concepts of Einstein's theory of relativity, beginning with special relativity (applicable to observers moving in straight lines at constant speed) and continuing to general relativity (which extends the theory to include acceleration and gravity and leads to the notion of curved space-time).
About the presenter
Todd Duncan combines a research background in physics and astronomy with experience teaching science concepts to a wide range of audiences. Todd has a Ph.D. in astrophysics from the University of Chicago, and physics degrees from Cambridge University and the University of Illinois. He's the author of Glimpses of Wonder and An Ordinary World and co-author of Your Cosmic Context, an introductory college cosmology text. He teaches astronomy at Portland Community College.