Invisible Rainbows: Exploring the Universe beyond our senses

There is much more to the universe than the light our eyes can see. In this talk, Dr Alfredo Carpineti explores the powerful phenomena, extraordinary events and remarkable objects that shape the cosmos, and explains how scientists have learnt to uncover them using forms of light beyond the visible spectrum.

The session ranges from gamma rays produced by violent cosmic explosions to galaxies that shine in radio waves, showing how the universe can be understood through signals that are invisible to us. It is an engaging introduction to the many ways astronomy reveals a richer and more complex cosmos than everyday vision allows.

The talk also features conversations with LGBTQIA+ astronomers and scientists from around the world, highlighting their important but often overlooked contribution to the field. Alongside the science, it considers how identity can influence the way people look at the universe and ask questions about it.