“The only way to learn mathematics is to do mathematics.” - Paul Halmos

Dr. Arif Zaman introduced the geometric techniques deployed by Al-Biruni to young participants. Al Biruni used trigonometry to calculate the radius of the Earth using measurements of the height of a hill and measurement of the dip in the horizon from the top of that hill. Dr. Arif Zaman enticed the students with the following question:

How can we calculate the distance of the moon, the sun, and farther galaxies from the Earth?   

A question that dwells so deep in the history of sciences and mathematics. This question led the human curiosity, indigenous thinking, and scientific development for many centuries. Our young participants

experienced the curiosity-filled math circle by measuring the distances through trigonometry, exactly the way Al-Biruni did. Moreover, they learned how space observatories are collecting data from farther stars and galaxies to measure the distances.

Here are some highlights from the event:

For more pictures visit our Facebook page.

Instructors: