Abstract

The Epoch of Reionisation (EoR) is one of the most mysterious epochs in our universes history. It stands as one of the main hurdles in constraining the parameters of the Lambda-CDM model further. It is currently one of the biggest research frontiers in Astrophysics and Radio Astronomy. I will first explain the motivations for exploring the EoR, and an overview of using the 21-cm hydrogen spectral line. I will discuss current experimental efforts, and the enormous difficulties that face radio astronomers in trying to detect the highly redshifted 21-cm spectral line. Tentative results and current progress is discussed, as well as a look towards the future in this growing area of cosmology and astronomy.

The talk will be followed by refreshments outside the lecture theatre.

The talk will be at the usual location of Wolfson lecture theatre in the Department of Chemistry. The entrance is the opposite side of the building to Bristol-Myers-Squibb Lecture theatre and is opposite the car park- shown by the red arrow on the map. https://map.cam.ac.uk/Department+of+Chemistry#52.197964,0.125242,18

Tickets are £2 or free for members. Annual membership (£7) and life membership (£12) can also be purchased at the event – please bring cash. The talk will be followed by refreshments outside the lecture theatre.