The Physics & Astronomy Colloquium Series presents Shelly Lesher of North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, discussing "Could Nuclear Physics Help Us Understand Cognitive Decline?" on April 3.

Abstract: In the late 1950s the U.S. Atomic Energy Commission (AEC) planned Project Plowshare, a series of tests designed to show the peaceful uses for nuclear explosions. One plan was to create an artificial harbor in Cape Thompson, Alaska using multiple hydrogen bombs in Project Chariot. However, nearby, the Iñupiat residents and local scientists fought to keep their land pristine. Taking on Edward Teller and the US Government, this group of Alaskan citizens thwarted the project and, in the process, started a movement.

This talk will discuss the project, the results of the fight, and the far-reaching implications of this project.