We are made of stardust. The atoms in our bodies were produced by stellar explosions that occurred billions of years ago. But the stars haven't just given us life; observing the sky has guided Homo Sapiens since prehistoric times. Who would we be had our ancestors been fated to live on a planet without stars? Without their guidance, human society would have been unrecognisable. Astronomy was the midwife of all the sciences, precursor to the technology that today shapes every aspect of our lives.
Join theoretical physicist Roberto Trotta as he uncovers the unexpected connections between the sight of the heavens and human history. From the role of stars in establishing our supremacy over the Neanderthals to navigation. From measuring time to the achievements of the Scientific Revolution. From astrology to artificial intelligence, to discover that stars made us who we are in more ways than we ever suspected.
By booking to attend events at the Royal Institution, you confirm that you have read and agree to the Ri's
As we're always trying to understand more about you and our audiences at the Ri, you'll notice we've introduced some optional questions when booking tickets. Please do take a moment to fill them in if you have the time.
Event image by NASA/JPL-Caltech