Talks and shows

SELLING FAST - The universe in a box

Explore the future of our universe, and how scientists are using computers to unravel its mystery.

An explosive image from space
Pexels via Pixabay

A mesmerising tapestry of cosmic events stretching over the past 13.8 billion years and even further into the future have shaped the existence we have come to know. But are secrets masked in the future of the universe? And how are scientists able to study the cosmos in all its glory, past, present and future?



Join Professor of Cosmology and science communicator Andrew Pontzen as he uncovers how intricate computer codes have unlocked our understanding of the universe – from galaxies and black holes to the very essence of matter itself. Simulations have also revolutionized our understanding of the cosmos, shedding new light on the universe's multifaceted complexities. They are the windows through which we peer into the hidden dimensions of space, guiding us through a journey from the phenomenon of cosmic redshift, which unveiled the universe's accelerating expansion, to the ethereal concept of dark matter, a substance that traverses solid rock as if it were a ghostly apparition.



But of course, none of these breakthroughs would be possible without the tireless efforts of scientists, whose brilliant minds persist to push the boundaries of knowledge. Join Andrew on a journey through space and time, with science, simulations and unrelenting human curiosity as your guides.  

Copies of Andrew's latest book: 'The Universe in a Box: A New Cosmic History' are available to purchase after the event. 

Event type

This is a theatre only event where the speakers and audience are together in our Theatre.

By booking to attend events at the Royal Institution, you confirm that you have read and accept the Ri's event terms and conditions. You also agree to abide by our code of conduct, and help to create a great experience for yourself and your fellow participants. Please note that Eventbrite adds a small booking fee to the amount paid for each ticket option.

For any queries regarding this event please get in touch by phone 020 7409 2992 or email events@ri.ac.uk.

About the speaker

 

Andrew Pontzen is a professor of cosmology at University College London. He has written for the New Scientist, BBC Sky at Night and BBC Science Focus; lectured at the Royal Institution; appeared on BBC, Amazon Prime and Discovery Channel documentaries; and contributed to BBC Radio 4 programmes including Inside Science and The Curious Cases of Rutherford & Fry. Computer simulations are a major part of his research which spans cosmology, physics and computation.

Timing

Doors to the theatre will open at 6.45pm and the talk will begin at 7.00pm.

Accessibility

The event will take place on the first floor and there is step-free access from the street via lift.

The closest underground station is Green Park, which is step-free.

There is space at floor level in the theatre for wheelchair users.

Seating is usually unreserved for our events. If you and your group require seating reservations, please do let us know by emailing us at events@ri.ac.uk, and we’ll be more than happy to help.

Carers can receive a free ticket to an event by emailing events@ri.ac.uk.

Our theatre is equipped with an Audio Induction Loop. 

Covid guidelines

Face masks are no longer mandatory and wearing one in our Theatre and at other Ri events is at your discretion, however please do not attend the Ri if you are displaying Covid symptoms or, if you have tested, the result remains positive. Thank you for respecting other people and their choices, and for helping us keep all of our visitors and staff safe and well.

Event terms and conditions