29 Nov 2023
Buchner speaks to a sold-out audience on radio astronomy and pulsars at the Franschhoek Theatre
On November 29, 2023, SmallTalX held its second talk at the Franschhoek Theatre, featuring Sarah Buchner, the science operations lead at the MeerKAT Radio Telescope. She discussed the fascinating subject of pulsars (magnetised rotating neutron stars) and the search for gravitational waves.
Eikestadnuus kindly featured this article in the lead-up to the second talk.
Buchner simplified a complex and otherwise inaccessible topic by offering sufficient context about the scope and scale of the work conducted at the MeerKAT Radio Telescope. She explained why it is such an engineering and scientific marvel, giving the audience insight into the technology's functionality and its role in enabling astronomers to perform astonishing tasks. Additionally, she emphasised the crucial role of the people involved in the process. Her talk thus included the story of Jocelyn Bell Burnell, who was the first to detect radio pulsars in 1967 - drawing the audience into what an exciting moment this was, before taking us forward into what the current exploration of pulsars looks like with radio telescopes.
Sarah explained (and showcased) what a pulsar is, along with more about other discoveries and observations made at MeerKAT. This is definitely a presentation to watch for again, as her talk shifts the audience from a terrestrial viewpoint to a broader perspective of the types of celestial bodies that exist in our Galaxy and beyond...
Buchner's presentation generated enthusiasm and piqued the audience's interest in visiting and learning more about MeerKAT. They were informed that there are open days, providing opportunities for the public to experience this scientific and technological marvel firsthand.
SmallTalX is excited about the success of this sold-out talk and is encouraged to continue hosting more events, concentrating on nature and science. SmallTalX aims to make these subjects accessible to both general and expert audiences, ultimately inspiring curiosity. See you soon for more from our experts - and, certainly, we can't wait to host Sarah Buchner again!