From Galileo to Einstein and Beyond

Long before the ancient Greeks began their journey of science and philosophy, humans were enchanted by light. Why and how does light intermingle with matter, like air and water? Where does light come from? What is the nature of starlight from the heavens compared to the bioluminescence from the seas? 

Through discussion and experimentation, this course will follow the development of our understanding of light and matter, from early Islamic knowledge to Einstein's questioning of space and time. Finally, we'll study the nature of science itself. The birth of optics, Edison bulbs, spectral emissions, glow sticks, LEDs, solar energy, cell phone displays, quantum computing – together these tell a version of our human story through the ages, through the lens of light and matter.

This course requires the use of a laptop or similar device. The Robinson Center can provide a device if your student does not have access. You can learn more about Device Requests here.