Our Universe   

The great Augustine of Hippo famously asked, “What is time then? If nobody asks me, I know; but if I were desirous to explain it to one that should ask me, plainly I do not know.”

The mystery of time has fascinated philosophers and scientists for centuries. Einstein held that the distinction between past, present, and future is a persistent illusion, while Hawking explored the possibility of a timeless reality. But what does modern physics tell us about the nature of time? Is time travel possible? What is entropy, and what role does it play in our understanding of time?

Using The Teaching Company course Mysteries of Modern Physics: Time by Sean Carroll, a recognized expert on the subject, we will explore these fascinating questions and much more as we examine one of the greatest mysteries of modern physics.

NASA is preparing for the next era of human space exploration through its Moonbase Program, an ambitious initiative to establish a sustained human presence on the lunar surface. This course provides an engaging overview of the program's goals, the technologies being developed, and the challenges of living and working on the Moon.

Participants will explore how NASA's lunar missions will serve as a stepping stone for future exploration of Mars and beyond. From lunar habitats and scientific research to international partnerships and commercial innovation, discover how this historic program is shaping the future of space exploration and humanity's return to the Moon.

This course will review our place in the universe, starting with the constellations and the wonders they offer. Learn about galaxies, nebulas, star clusters and other deep-sky objects. Track the earth's orbital motion, the cause of season changes, the motions of our moon's lunar phases and the cause of solar and lunar eclipses. Great course for beginners.