Speaker:
Title:
Abstract:
When we look out on a clear night, the universe seems
infinite. Yet this infinity might be an illusion.
During the first half of the presentation, computer
games will introduce the concept of a
"multiconnected universe". Interactive 3D
graphics will then take the viewer on a tour
of several possible shapes for space. Finally,
we'll see how recent satellite data provide
tantalizing clues to the true shape of our universe.
The only prerequisites for this talk are curiosity
and imagination. The Michelson Memorial Lecture is open to the public.
Bio:
Jeff Weeks is a freelance mathematician
living in Canton, NY. He has an A.B. from Dartmouth College
and a Ph.D. from Princeton University, both in
mathematics. His thesis advisor was William
Thurston. His main interests are geometry,
topology, cosmology and education. After several
years of teaching undergraduate mathematics, he
resigned to care for his newborn son. When his
son began school, Jeff began doing mathematical
research and software development for the University
of Minnesota's Geometry Center, designing and
implementing software for creating and studying possible
shapes for 3-dimensional space. His program
SnapPea has been widely used by hyperbolic geometers and knot theorists.
A former MacArthur Fellow (1999-2004) and current
National Science Foundation award recipient (2005-2008),
Jeff splits his time between research and education.
His present research centers on a collaboration
with cosmologists with whom he is testing the shape
of the universe using data from the Wilkinson Microwave
Anisotropy Probe satellite. His educational activities
have led to a multimedia unit for middle schools on
geometry and space. The unit uses classroom activities,
computer games and video to let students explore
universes that are finite yet have no boundaries.
Jeff is the author of the book The Shape of Space
(Marcel Dekker, 1985; second edition 2002), the unit
Exploring the Shape of Space (Key Curriculum Press, 2001)
and numerous research and expository articles.