Seminars : Documents

Joint colloquium :

Giant telescopes and the distant Universe
Paul Hickson (University of British Columbia)

The next generation of optical and infrared telescopes will transform astronomy. Equipped with adaptive optics and suites of sophisticated instruments, these telescopes will provide a view of the Universe with unparalleled resolution and sensitivity. Their science programs range from studies of the first luminous objects in the Universe to the characterization of extrasolar planets and the search for extraterrestrial life. Three such facilities are expected to begin construction within the next two or three years. I will give an overview of these projects, highlight some of the scientific opportunities that they will provide, and describe the novel technologies that make these telescopes possible.