Grade 8 students at the International School of Schaffhausen recently had the unique opportunity to attend a captivating virtual lecture on astrophysics. The lecture, held via Zoom, featured Professor Jonathon Nichols from the Department of Physics and Astronomy at Leicester University.
Professor Nichols, an expert in the field, shared his research on the magnetic fields of Jupiter and its moons. His work sheds light on the intricate interplay between these magnetic fields and the mesmerizing auroras that grace the gas giant’s atmosphere.
The students were fascinated as Professor Nichols explained how the magnetic interactions between Jupiter and its moons create stunning auroras. These amazing light shows are not only visually captivating but also provide valuable insights into the dynamics of our solar system.
What made this lecture particularly fascinating for the students was its relevance to recent solar activity visible in Switzerland. As the skies above Schaffhausen recently lit up with solar flares and coronal mass ejections (from the sun), the students connected the dots between these cosmic phenomena and Professor Nichols’ research.
The International School of Schaffhausen continues to foster curiosity and scientific exploration among its students, and events like this astrophysics lecture contribute to their holistic education.
