Understanding how galaxies form and evolve within the standard cosmological framework that describes the Universe is among the biggest challenges in astronomy today. The properties of gas-rich, star-forming nearby galaxies are key to this picture, both because they resemble the Milky Way in which we live and because they make up the bulk of the galaxy population in most cosmic environments. In this talk, Prof. Kristine Spekkens will describe the connection between galaxies, dark matter, and cosmology, highlighting how the atomic gas in galaxies serves as a powerful cosmological probe. It will also discuss how a revolution in our understanding of these objects and many others in the night sky is underway with the advent of a new generation of radio telescopes. These facilities are paving the way for groundbreaking discoveries with the SKA telescope, an international mega-science project in which Canada is a member, which is expected to come online towards the end of this decade.
This Free Public Event coincides with the Women+ in Physics Canada (WIPC+) Conference, where attendees will also have the opportunity to view posters showcasing the work of talented women and gender minority scientists from across the country.
