PUBLIC LECTURE SERIES

Speaker: Stephanie La Massa (Space Telescope Science Institute)

Black holes are the most enigmatic objects in the universe, objects so dense that not even light can escape from them. However, observational evidence of black holes has become abundant over the past several decades.

Though black holes give off no light, we can infer their presence based on the effects they have on their surroundings. Dr. Stephanie La Massa of the Space Telescope Science Institute will highlight the clues we use to discover black holes from within our galaxy to the edges of the universe. Recent ground-breaking observations from the Event Horizon Telescope and gravitational waves have pushed the boundaries of our knowledge about black holes. Still, many important questions remain, which the next generation of ground- and space-based telescopes will help answer.

Recorded live on Tuesday, November 1, 2022.

The STScI Public Lecture Series offers talks on a diverse selection of cosmic topics, typically held the first Tuesday of every month. The 2022 Public Lecture Series is continuing an online-only format. This lecture will be presented with a livestream to YouTube, and questions can be asked in the YouTube chat. As usual, the recording will also be posted on our YouTube channel. We will, as necessary, adjust from the traditional first Tuesday at 8 PM schedule to accommodate our speakers.

Live and archived recordings:

• News and introductions
• Black Holes: How Do We See That Which Gives Off No Light? (YouTube)