Dr. Devon Burr, associate professor of Earth and Planetary Sciences, will present “Titan: A Surprisingly Earth-like World” at the next UT Science Forum Friday, March 4.
Titan, the largest satellite of Saturn, is very alien in its composition and conditions, but surprisingly Earth-like in its landscapes. Mountain ranges have similar shapes to terrestrial mountains, but a likely composition of icy compounds. The moon hosts rivers and lakes, although with an average surface temperature of -290 degrees F (94K), the flowing liquid is largely nitrogen. Vast sand deposits are apparent, comprised of carbon-rich sands. This talk will review these fascinating aspects of Titan.
The UT Science Forum begins at 12 p.m. in the Thompson-Boling Arena Cafe, Rooms C-D. Each 45-minute lecture is followed by an audience Q&A. Attendees are encouraged to bring their lunch or purchase it from the Cafe.
The event is free and open to the public.