Abstract

Arguably, the most dramatic geochemical distinction between the Earth and Moon has been the virtual lack of water (hydrogen) in the latter. This conclusion was recently challenged on the basis of geochemical data for lunar materials that suggest that the water content of the Moon might be far higher than previously believed. We have measured the Cl isotope composition of Apollo basalts and find that the range of isotopic values 25 times greater than for Earth. The huge isotopic spread is explained by volatilization of metal halides during basalt eruption, a process that could only occur if the Moon had H concentration ~104 to 105 lower than Earth, implicating that the lunar interior is essentially anhydrous.

Abstract
Since their discovery in 1856, Neandertals have generally been considered a different species or inferior offshoots from the subsequent European line with no contribution to the people who followed them. Yet, a variety of anatomical, genetic and behavioral traits link Neandertals with their European successors. Along with new information from biology and culture, it is becoming increasingly difficult to exclude Neandertals from those who followed them in Europe.

Dealing With Danger: How Innercity Youth Cope With the Violence that Surrounds Them. by Howard Pinderhughes, University of California, San Francisco. Thursday, 18 November 2010, 5 p.m.

Abstract
Land cover change driven by human activity is profoundly affecting Earth's natural systems with impacts ranging from a loss of biological diversity to changes in regional and global climate. This change has been so pervasive and progressed so rapidly, compared to natural processes, scientists refer to it as "the great transformation". Urbanization or the 'gray wave' of land transformation is being increasingly recognized as an important process in global climate change. A hallmark of our success as a species, large urban conglomerates do in fact alter the land surface so profoundly that both local climate and the basic ecology of the landscape are affected in ways that have consequences to human health and economic well-being. Fortunately we have incredible new tools for planning and developing urban places that are both enjoyable and sustainable. A suite of Earth observing satellites is making it possible to study the interactions between urbanization, biological processes, and weather and climate. Using these Earth Observatories we are learning how urban heat islands form and potentially ameliorate them, how urbanization can affect rainfall, pollution, and surface water recharge at the local level and climate and food security globally.

Spring 2011

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Archive of Distinguished Public Talks: 2009-2010

Archive of Distinguished Public Talks: 2008-2009

Archive of Distinguished Public Talks: 2007-2008

Archive of Distinguished Public Talks: 2006-2007

Archive of Distinguished Public Talks: 2005-2006