SciBar is science in a bar - an invited speaker gives a talk on a scientific topic while people enjoy a drink or meal, with a Q&A afterwards. In March Bollington SciBar takes place at the Cock and Pheasant and the speaker is Dr Pete Nolan.

The talk will follow Planet Earth's family history back as far as evidence-based science can take us. And slightly beyond.

No charge, all welcome. Talk begins 6.30pm. Arrive early to be sure of a seat.

Synopsis of the talk

Throughout recorded history, civilisations have speculated on creation theories to explain their origins and environment. In the age of enlightenment, a burgeoning movement began using evidence-based science to seek answers to the same questions. This talk traces the story of the journey to uncovering reliable data and trace back the origins of Planet Earth though the long and extraordinary history of the Universe, to a modern creation theory, the Big Bang. It also reviews what has been learnt along the way, from the life and death of stars to dark matter and black holes. Eventually, however, a point is reached where evidence for the earlier moments of creation is no longer so well established and the scientific community is faced once more with having to speculate. I hope to encourage tonight's audience to participate in this speculation.

About the speaker

Peter chose early in life to pursue the evidence-seeking scientific approach, working assiduously for a degree in physics and maths at Manchester University, a masters in the theory of materials at Sheffield and a doctorate in materials physics at Salford. A research career in the nuclear power industry helped ensure that the boiler tubes and structural steels in the nuclear reactors stood the test of time. Blessed with a second career in environmental management, he finally retired to concentrate on long distance walking. Committed to scientific outreach, sharing his experiences with the wider community, he became involved with scibars and science book clubs and rarely misses an opportunity to discuss the latest scientific developments with his colleagues and friends.