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Astronomy Meets Geology
June 14
Instructor: Gary Ladd
Hike Level: 1 
Fee: $115.00 Non-member, $105.00 GCA Member
Geology has experienced two great revolutions in the past 40 years—Plate Tectonics Theory and Impact Theory. The theories have changed the science from one of endless data collection to one of unexpected insights into the basic mechanics of our planet. Meanwhile, the science of astronomy has experienced a series of discoveries as rapid advances in technology have made possible. As a result, the interconnections between geology and astronomy have proliferated.
This class will begin with basic geologic concepts, most of them closely related to Plate Tectonics. Topics will include that which makes the local geologic province—the Colorado Plateau—unique, a review of the rock units of Grand Canyon and nearby Glen Canyon, an explanation of the geologic time scale to see where local rocks fit into that scale, a demonstration of how difficult it is to comprehend the vast expanse of geologic time, and an attempt to explain what is currently known about the carving of Grand Canyon. Discussions will then move to the second revolution in geology, Impact Theory, to explore its implications for life on Earth. Finally, given life’s success on this planet, the class will consider the possible reasons why scientists have yet to uncover a shred of solid evidence that reveals the existence of intelligent life near some other star. Speaking of stars, just how do they work? Participants will examine this question, and move on to how physicists have pinned down the age of the universe and consider if we really, finally, absolutely know where we are in the great scheme of things. Astronomy Meets Geology is a wild ride from the Earth’s core to the stars featuring many visual aids, diagrams and a slide show.
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