Chris Stoughton
Engaging Presentations
Where in the World is the Equator? Journey to the equator with tales of science, myth-busting, and the French Geodesic Mission that helped shape our understanding of Earth—literally. Discover how precision mapping began and where it’s headed next.
John Glenn’s Epic Excursion Relive John Glenn’s legendary splashdown near Grand Turk Island and celebrate the brilliant minds -— armed with slide rules and pocket protectors -— who made it happen. Because yes, it was rocket science.
Surfing on Gravitational Waves Einstein predicted them—but never thought we’d catch them. A century later, scientists heard the cosmic “chirps” of black holes colliding. Discover how we learned to detect ripples in spacetime itself and what it really takes to ride a gravitational wave.
Gravity is not so Simple After All! Einstein’s Copenhagen Problem – Gravity is one of the deepest mysteries in modern physics, refusing to play by the same rules as the quantum world. This talk explores how scientists are testing gravity in bold new ways, from dark matter to extra dimensions, revealing why the universe’s oldest force might just be its most puzzling.
Edvard Grieg: Music of Earth and Sky Let the music of Edvard Grieg guide you through Norway’s soul—its soaring fjords, shimmering skies, and ancient Norse legends. Though born in Bergen, Grieg only truly “discovered” Norway after studying abroad, returning with melodies that captured the magic of his homeland. His music weaves together nature, myth, and memory into a timeless symphony of Earth and sky.
Japanese Sky Maps From ancient stargazers to cutting-edge space science, Japan’s connection to the cosmos runs deep. Explore stunning maps of the Universe created by Japanese astronomers and hear the stories behind the telescopes that helped revolutionize modern astronomy.
Future Excursions to the Moons of Jupiter Galileo saw tiny dots—today, we see adventure. From icy oceans to volcanic vistas, Jupiter’s moons are full of surprises. Could they even host life? Pack your imagination and get ready for a journey where the locals might be more than just friendly!
Nordic Constellations and Lore From sky-bound warriors to mythical beasts that guided ancient seafarers, discover how the Nordic people read the stars and what their constellations reveal about their beliefs, values, and deep connection to the cosmos.
From Myth to Modern Science: Nordic Cosmology and Astrophysics Journey from ancient myths to modern science as we explore how Norse cosmology—filled with gods, world trees, and cosmic beasts—mirrors today’s understanding of the universe. From Yggdrasil to cosmic rebirth, discover how myth and science both seek to explain the stars and our place among them.
Fjords, Fossils, and Fire Norway’s epic landscape tells a story billions of years in the making. From glacier-carved fjords and ancient mountain ranges to fiery origins and fossil-filled rocks, discover how Earth’s raw power shaped one of the world’s most breathtaking coastlines. A journey through deep time —- no hiking boots required!
What’s up with Pluto? Why isn’t Pluto a planet anymore? What have we learned since the big change? Get the latest on the New Horizons mission, explore Pluto’s icy surface, and see how its glaciers stack up against Earth’s. Space, science, and a little bit of mystery.