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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260917T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260917T113000
DTSTAMP:20260911T135932Z
CREATED:20260905T133427Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260911T135932Z
UID:93202-1789641000-1789644600@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Britain's Broken Justice System
DESCRIPTION:As our long\, hot summer finally comes to an end\, so too has the honeymoon period for the new PM\, as he confronts all those thorny issues which bedevilled his predecessors\, and still remain unresolved. And one of the most intractable is the crisis in Britain’s criminal justice system\, as exemplified most recently in our prisons where\, not for the first time\, inmates are having to be released early because of overcrowding. Quite apart from the trauma it evokes in their victims – not to mention the burden it places on the probation system – the exercise is largely futile\, because the stubbornly-high reoffending rate only adds further pressure to our already-stretched judicial system. Little wonder\, then\, that new cases are taking ever longer to come to court – even the controversial proposal to axe some jury trials wouldn’t even scratch the surface of this long-standing problem. Is it time\, then\, to completely rethink our approach\, by considering alternatives to locking up ever more of our fellow citizens? There’s a lot to talk about\, so why not join us for an hour of lively discussion on these important issues! \nIf you haven’t yet done so\, there’s still time to join our mailing list\, which will ensure that you receive those all-important Zoom log-in details… just click here: Subscribe to the Current Affairs group
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/britains-broken-justice-system/
CATEGORIES:Current Affairs Meeting,Frontpage
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/The-Prisons-Crisis-Sep26-image.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260915T150000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260915T170000
DTSTAMP:20260819T195626Z
CREATED:20260819T195626Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260819T195626Z
UID:93120-1789484400-1789491600@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Tracking aircraft above your house
DESCRIPTION:15th September @ 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm \nThis month we take a look at tracking aircraft above your house using ADS-B. \nWe look at what ADS-B is\, hardware and software required to receive it plus integration into home assistant to allow further processing. \nPlenty of time is reserved for discussions. \nJoining details will be emailed to subscribers.  If you aren’t a member\, it’s free to join here https://u3acommunities.org/subscribe-to-computing-forum/.
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/tracking-aircraft-above-your-house/
CATEGORIES:Computing Meeting,Frontpage
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/ADS-B.webp
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260909T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260909T120000
DTSTAMP:20260911T132303Z
CREATED:20260819T101351Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260911T132303Z
UID:93100-1788949800-1788955200@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:The Wonder of Water
DESCRIPTION:Water is the most abundant molecule on the surface of the Earth\, and essential for life as we know it. It makes up around 60% of the human body\, and up to 90% in other organisms. But this ubiquity is no coincidence\, because chemical reactions of the kind necessary for supporting life are only possible because of water’s unique physicochemical characteristics. In this wide-ranging presentation\, Carol Barrett\, from Cardiff u3a\, will explain how these remarkable properties can explain observations as diverse as the shapes of raindrops and snowflakes\, why some insects can literally ‘walk’ on water\, and how plants – even the tallest trees – are able to lift it up from the ground to every single leaf.  \nTo view the recording\, click here… “The Wonder of Water”\n(recordings are for personal/private use only – please do not share this link) \nTo contact us about the Science & Technology group\, click here… Get in touch
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/the-wonder-of-water/
CATEGORIES:Frontpage,Science and Technology Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/The-Wonder-of-Water-image-for-website.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260908T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260908T120000
DTSTAMP:20260903T075253Z
CREATED:20260903T075253Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260903T075253Z
UID:93181-1788863400-1788868800@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Mountains
DESCRIPTION:Speaker: Professor Tom Argles \nProfessor Tom Argles\, Professor of Earth Science Education in the School of Environment\, Earth and Ecosystem Sciences of The Open University\, will be speaking to us about Mountains\, including recent research and his experiences in the Himalayas and other mountain ranges around the world. \nImage: Landscape view of the himalayan mountain ranges. Image by Wirestock\, designed by Magnific. \nSubscribe to Geology
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/mountains/
LOCATION:Zoom
CATEGORIES:Frontpage,Geology Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/landscape-view-himalayan-mountain-ranges-clear-sky-background-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260818T150000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260818T170000
DTSTAMP:20260724T165230Z
CREATED:20260723T161844Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260724T165230Z
UID:92767-1787065200-1787072400@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Virtual Machines\, Containers and related technologies
DESCRIPTION:18th August @ 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm\n\n\nThis month we have a talk about virtual machines\, containers and related technologies. \nWe will discuss how different technologies can be used to make better use of server hardware resources.  Included are two explainer videos from IBM. \nPlenty of time is reserved for discussions. \nJoining details will be emailed to subscribers.  If you aren’t a member\, it’s free to join here https://u3acommunities.org/subscribe-to-computing-forum/.
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/virtual-machines-containers-and-related-technologies-2/
CATEGORIES:Computing Meeting,Frontpage
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Containers-1.webp
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260811T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260811T120000
DTSTAMP:20260806T101002Z
CREATED:20260806T101002Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260806T101002Z
UID:92914-1786444200-1786449600@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Two Geoparks\, One Story: The Geology of Cuilcagh Lakelands and Mourne Gullion Strangford\, Northern Ireland
DESCRIPTION:  \nSpeaker: Doctor Kirstin Lemon \nDoctor Kirstin Lemon\, Science Programme Manager at the Geological Survey of Northern Ireland\, will be speaking to us about “Two Geoparks\, One Story: The Geology of Cuilcagh Lakelands and Mourne Gullion Strangford\, Northern Ireland” \nCuilcagh Lakelands Geopark straddles the border between Co. Fermanagh in Northern Ireland and Co. Cavan in the Republic of Ireland. It was the first area in the UK to be recognised as a Geopark in 2001 and in 2008 became the first transnational Geopark. The area covers a vast amount of geological time\, from the oldest Precambrian rocks through glaciation to the continuing active formation of cave and karst features. Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark is spectacularly beautiful. Forged by nature\, torn apart by volcanic activity and sculpted by ice. \nImage: Wall along the Mourne Mountains by Melanie Biausque (distributed via imaggeo.egu.eu) \nSubscribe to Geology
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/two-geoparks-one-story/
LOCATION:Zoom
CATEGORIES:Frontpage,Geology Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Wall-on-the-Mourne-Mountains-scaled.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260728T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260728T200000
DTSTAMP:20260727T181623Z
CREATED:20260727T181623Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260727T181623Z
UID:92805-1785265200-1785268800@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Let's discuss if the novel is really dead
DESCRIPTION:We constantly hear that the novel is dead. But stories keep being written and published. So is it really?\nBring your own thoughts and examples
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/lets-discuss-if-the-novel-is-really-dead/
CATEGORIES:Books and Literature Meeting,Frontpage
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/booksliterature.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260727T150000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260727T163000
DTSTAMP:20260630T214118Z
CREATED:20260630T213259Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260630T214118Z
UID:86133-1785164400-1785169800@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Antimatter Research\, Accelerator Systems\, and Practical Applications
DESCRIPTION:Speaker: Prof. Carsten Welsch \n Head of Accelerator Science\, Liverpool University \nFrom science fiction to serious science: antimatter research is now producing important advances in accelerator technology\, imaging and precision instrumentation.  \nProfessor Carsten Welsch shares insights from CERN and Liverpool into how antimatter is created\, controlled and studied — and why these developments may matter far beyond physics laboratories. \nIf you are not already subscribed\, subscription is free and you will receive joining details and news about forthcoming Leading Edge meetings https://u3acommunities.org/subscribe-to-leading-edge/
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/antimatter-research-accelerator-systems-and-practical-applications/
CATEGORIES:Frontpage,Leading-edge Research Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Antimatter-Research-Accelerator-Systems-and-Practical-Applications-smaller.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260721T150000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260721T170000
DTSTAMP:20260629T072308Z
CREATED:20260629T072308Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260629T072308Z
UID:85734-1784646000-1784653200@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Remote Access
DESCRIPTION:21st July @ 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm\n\n\nAside from web browsing\, sometimes you need to login or access an application on a remote server.  This could be for the purposes of administration or sharing resources.  So in this session we look at some of the ways you can perform remote access.\n\nAs always\, plenty of time is reserved for discussions. \nJoining details will be emailed to subscribers.  If you aren’t a member\, it’s free to join here https://u3acommunities.org/subscribe-to-computing-forum/.
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/remote-access/
CATEGORIES:Computing Meeting,Frontpage
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/remoteaccess-scaled.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260716T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260716T113000
DTSTAMP:20260707T101712Z
CREATED:20260707T101155Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260707T101712Z
UID:88138-1784197800-1784201400@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Burnham's Britain
DESCRIPTION:It is now all but certain that\, by next weekend\, Andy Burnham will become our next Prime Minister. He may have a Messianic appeal within his party\, but the man himself will be under no illusions that the government he inherits – just two years on from its historic election victory in 2024 – has lost the confidence of the voters that it can still deliver on its manifesto commitments\, to change Britain for the better. So\, at this meeting\, we’ll consider the huge challenges that Burnham will face – economic\, social and political – if he is to win over a cynical public\, tired of the Prime-Ministerial merry-go-round of the last ten years. Can he do it… why not come along next Thursday and tell us what you think! \nIf you haven’t yet done so\, there’s still time to join our mailing list\, which will ensure that you receive those all-important Zoom log-in details… just click here: Subscribe to the Current Affairs group
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/burnhams-britain/
CATEGORIES:Current Affairs Meeting,Frontpage
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Burnham-Banner-format.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260708T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260708T120000
DTSTAMP:20260710T085034Z
CREATED:20260615T144327Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260710T085034Z
UID:81707-1783506600-1783512000@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Before Penicillin: Treating Infections in the 'Olden Days'
DESCRIPTION:Few would argue that the discovery of penicillin\, and the antibiotics revolution that followed\, was one of the most far-reaching breakthroughs of twentieth-century medical science. But infection treatment itself has a much longer pedigree\, stretching back hundreds or even thousands of years. And it’s that story – of mysterious moulds and improbable potions (some of which even worked!) – that Mike Trevethick of Thanet u3a will be sharing with us this month. It’s a tale of daring over dogma – and some lucky breaks along the way – so why not join us for this fascinating trawl through the history books. \nTo view the recording\, click here… “Before Penicillin”\n(recordings are for personal/private use only – please do not share this link) \nTo contact us about the Science & Technology group\, click here… Get in touch
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/before-penicillin-treating-infections-in-the-olden-days/
CATEGORIES:Frontpage,Science and Technology Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Medieval-medicine-image-for-website.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260629T160000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260629T173000
DTSTAMP:20260517T222201Z
CREATED:20260428T115943Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260517T222201Z
UID:68292-1782748800-1782754200@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Discovering how our Genes shape Learning and Cognition
DESCRIPTION:Speaker: Prof. Robert Plomin \n Professor of Behavioural Genetics  Social\, Genetic and Developmental Psychiatry Centre\, Institute of Psychiatry\, Psychology and Neuroscience\, King’s College \nHow much of intelligence and learning ability is inherited? Can DNA help explain why people learn differently? In this engaging Zoom presentation\, Robert Plomin will discuss the revolutionary findings emerging from behavioural genetics and cognitive research. Drawing on decades of evidence from twin studies and genomic science\, he is likely to explore the genetic foundations of cognition\, educational attainment and personality. Professor Plomin argues that inherited differences play a far larger role in human development than many people realise\, while chance experiences may matter more than shared family environment. The talk promises to illuminate both the science and the controversy surrounding genetics and human potential\, making it essential for anyone interested in education\, psychology\, neuroscience and the future of learning. \nIf you are not already subscribed\, subscription is free and you will receive joining details and news about forthcoming Leading Edge meetings https://u3acommunities.org/subscribe-to-leading-edge/
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/from-concept-to-reality-space-based-solar-power-today/
CATEGORIES:Frontpage,Leading-edge Research Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Discovering-how-our-Genes-shape-Learning-and-Cognition.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260618T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260618T113000
DTSTAMP:20260612T091637Z
CREATED:20260611T140247Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260612T091637Z
UID:80342-1781778600-1781782200@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:The Welfare State: Is it Still Affordable?
DESCRIPTION:In Britain today\, few issues provoke more heated debate than this. On one side are those who argue\, on humanitarian grounds\, that the less fortunate among us deserve all the support they need in order to live with at least the most basic of human needs – shelter\, food\, healthcare\, and the means to raise a family. Against this are an unsympathetic press-pack (pictured) who decry such people\, branding them as feckless skivers\, brazenly scrounging off everybody else. And in the middle – as always – are our politicians\, having to make hugely difficult decisions about dividing up the national ‘pot’ in a fair and equitable manner. So\, at this month’s meeting\, we’ll take a look at some of the data\, and consider the question of whether the welfare state is still affordable in its current form. \nIf you haven’t yet done so\, there’s still time to join our mailing list\, which will ensure that you receive those all-important Zoom log-in details… just click here: Subscribe to the Current Affairs group
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/the-welfare-state-is-it-still-affordable/
CATEGORIES:Current Affairs Meeting,Frontpage
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Welfare-Reform-Jun26-image.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260616T150000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260616T170000
DTSTAMP:20260607T163413Z
CREATED:20260607T163413Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260607T163413Z
UID:79454-1781622000-1781629200@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Ask the group anything
DESCRIPTION:16 June @ 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm\n\nThis month we running another … ask the group anything. \nSo come along with your questions – could be related to a previous talk or really anything broadly related to computer science. \nThe meeting process will be : \n\nIf you have a question\, put it in the zoom chat window\nI will choose a question and raise to the group\nAnyone who has a response to the question can raise their hand\nI’ll choose who to speak as usual\n\nOf course there is a risk that we run out of time … I will try to manage the time so we get through as many questions as possible. \nSince this is a discussion rather than a presentation\, we won’t record this meeting. \nIf you aren’t a member\, it’s free to join here https://u3acommunities.org/subscribe-to-computing-forum/.
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/ask-the-group-anything-2/
CATEGORIES:Computing Meeting,Frontpage
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/qa.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260610T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260610T120000
DTSTAMP:20260620T111323Z
CREATED:20260518T113639Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260620T111323Z
UID:73857-1781087400-1781092800@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:'Forever' Chemicals
DESCRIPTION:‘Forever’ Chemicals\, otherwise known as PFAs\, are a large group of synthetic organic compounds that have been around – literally – since the 1930s\, when they were discovered\, quite by accident\, to be useful raw materials in the manufacture of plastics. Today\, the problem of plastic pollution is a familiar one\, but the PFAs themselves pose an even more insidious environmental threat: not only are they almost indestructible\, but they’ve been found in the air we breathe\, the water we drink\, the soil we grow crops on\, and even inside living organisms – including us! In this thought-provoking talk\, David McLellan from Torridge u3a will describe the history\, the chemistry\, the risks we face\, and what – if anything – we can now do about it. \nTo view the recording\, click here… “Forever Chemicals”\n(recordings are for personal/private use only – please do not share this link) \nTo contact us about the Science & Technology group\, click here… Get in touch  \n 
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/forever-chemicals/
CATEGORIES:Frontpage,Science and Technology Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Forever-chemicals-image-for-website.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260609T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260609T120000
DTSTAMP:20260608T211128Z
CREATED:20260608T211128Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260608T211128Z
UID:79706-1781001000-1781006400@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Minerals that glow
DESCRIPTION:Speaker: Doctor Paul Beatty \nPaul will be telling us all about these amazing minerals\, why they glow and the many ways they’re used. \nMineral enthusiasts concentrate on displaying these minerals under UV lighting to reveal their beauty. Some minerals produce light when exposed to X-rays\, electron beams (cathode rays)\, radioactivity\, high electric fields and even mechanical energy from grinding. Others glow in response to heating\, thermoluminescence\, is used in archaeology\, geology and environmental science to date artefacts and geological formations accurately. Other uses include TV screens based on cathode ray tubes\, advertising and electronic displays\, fluorescent lamps\, and more recently in LED lighting using blue or UV LEDs as the means of excitation. \nSubscribe to Geology
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/minerals-that-glow/
LOCATION:Zoom
CATEGORIES:Frontpage,Geology Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/330px-Fluorescent_minerals_hg.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260526T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260526T200000
DTSTAMP:20260525T094837Z
CREATED:20260525T094837Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260525T094837Z
UID:75838-1779822000-1779825600@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Hilaire Belloc was he a great writer or simply grumpy
DESCRIPTION:Tonight\, we go back in time to discuss the formidable output of some 500 works of literature across multiple genres\, who at the same time managed to fall out with most of his contemporaries.  So let’s discuss what he was trying to do.
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/hilaire-belloc-was-he-a-great-writer-or-simply-grumpy/
CATEGORIES:Books and Literature Meeting,Frontpage
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Hilaire-Belloc.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260525T170000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260525T183000
DTSTAMP:20260517T224244Z
CREATED:20260517T224244Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260517T224244Z
UID:73567-1779728400-1779733800@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:From Concept to Reality: Space‑Based Solar Power Today
DESCRIPTION:Speaker: Martin Soltau \n Co‑CEO\, Space Solar  \nSpace‑based solar power (SBSP) is no longer a distant dream—it’s becoming a credible pillar of future clean‑energy systems. By harvesting sunlight in orbit\, where it is eight times more intense and uninterrupted by weather or night\, SBSP could deliver continuous\, zero‑carbon power to Earth. The implications for energy security\, decarbonisation\, and global development are profound. \nMartin Soltau will guide us through the engineering breakthroughs making SBSP viable today: ultra‑lightweight solar arrays\, high‑efficiency microwave transmission\, autonomous orbital assembly\, and the economics of gigawatt‑scale power stations in space. Learn how this technology could transform the world’s energy landscape and why governments and industry are accelerating investment right now. \nIf you are not already subscribed\, subscription is free and you will receive joining details and news about forthcoming Leading Edge meetings https://u3acommunities.org/subscribe-to-leading-edge/
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/from-concept-to-reality-space-based-solar-power-today-2/
CATEGORIES:Frontpage,Leading-edge Research Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/From-concept-to-reality-Space-Based-Solar-Power-today.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260521T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260521T113000
DTSTAMP:20260717T085416Z
CREATED:20260513T134922Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260717T085416Z
UID:71821-1779359400-1779363000@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Current Affairs discussion group: Open Forum
DESCRIPTION:With so much going on at the moment\, both domestically and around the world\, it’s time once again to open the floor to all of you – our members – to share your thoughts on any topic you wish. Whether it’s making the headlines right now\, or it’s been squeezed out by everything else\, why not come along and give it an airing! \nIf you haven’t yet done so\, there’s still time to join our mailing list\, which will ensure that you receive those all-important Zoom log-in details… just click here: Subscribe to the Current Affairs group
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/current-affairs-discussion-group-open-forum-2/
CATEGORIES:Current Affairs Meeting,Frontpage
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/CA-group-Meetings-archive-image.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260519T150000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260519T170000
DTSTAMP:20260513T125832Z
CREATED:20260503T100309Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260513T125832Z
UID:69343-1779202800-1779210000@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Agentic Artificial Intelligence
DESCRIPTION:19th May @ 3:00pm – 5:00pm \nThis month we’ll look at agentic artificial intelligence … large language models are now no-longer contrained to just “chat”\, they can now interface to the outside world to perform tasks.  We’ll take a look at a couple of tools (opencode and openclaw)\, how they work and risks involved. \nAs always\, plenty of time is reserved for discussions. \nJoining details will be emailed to subscribers.  If you aren’t a member\, it’s free to join here https://u3acommunities.org/subscribe-to-computing-forum/.
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/agenic-artificial-intelligence/
CATEGORIES:Computing Meeting,Frontpage
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260513T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260513T120000
DTSTAMP:20260514T133232Z
CREATED:20260420T135229Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260514T133232Z
UID:65766-1778668200-1778673600@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Rosalind Franklin: The Triumph and the Tragedy
DESCRIPTION:In 1953\, the scientific world was abuzz with the discovery of the structure of DNA by James Watson & Francis Crick\, but back then\, few were aware that it was only made possible by the painstaking work of another\, equally brilliant scientist who\, as a woman in what was still largely a man’s world\, had long struggled to be taken seriously. She would go on to make ground-breaking discoveries in the study of viruses\, until\, in 1958\, she was tragically cut down in her prime by cancer. She was just 37. Had she lived\, who knows what else she might have accomplished\, but her moving story – told here by Barry Zussman (Torridge u3a) – would become her greatest legacy\, and an inspiration for women in science everywhere. \nTo view the recording\, click here… ‘Rosalind Franklin: The Triumph & The Tragedy’\n(recordings are for personal/private use only – please do not share this link) \nTo contact us about the Science & Technology group\, click here… Get in touch
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/rosalind-franklin-the-triumph-and-the-tragedy/
CATEGORIES:Frontpage,Science and Technology Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Franklin-photograph-51-hi-res-image.jpg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260429T150000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260429T163000
DTSTAMP:20260328T234013Z
CREATED:20260328T234013Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260328T234013Z
UID:60600-1777474800-1777480200@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Space Debris and new approaches to rectification
DESCRIPTION:Speaker: Ray Fielding \n Head of Sustainability and ISAM UK Space Agency  \nEarth’s orbits are becoming the world’s most valuable—and most vulnerable—commons. Every bolt\, paint fleck\, and abandoned satellite hurtling around our planet threatens the systems we rely on daily: GPS\, climate monitoring\, telecommunications\, and future exploration. With over 36\,000 trackable objects and millions more too small to detect\, the challenge is accelerating faster than we can clean it up. \nJoin us as Ray Fielding reveals how the UK Space Agency is pioneering new strategies to tackle this orbital crisis. From active debris removal to in‑orbit servicing and manufacturing (ISAM)\, Ray will unpack the technologies reshaping how we build\, repair\, and protect our space infrastructure. Discover how global collaboration\, engineering innovation\, and sustainability thinking are converging to safeguard humanity’s access to space. \nIf you are not already subscribed\, subscription is free and you will receive joining details and news about forthcoming Leading Edge meetings https://u3acommunities.org/subscribe-to-leading-edge/
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/space-debris-and-new-approaches-to-rectification/
CATEGORIES:Frontpage,Leading-edge Research Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Space-Debris-and-new-approaches-to-rectification-.png
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260428T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260428T200000
DTSTAMP:20260427T170238Z
CREATED:20260427T170238Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260427T170238Z
UID:68144-1777402800-1777406400@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Daniel Defoe... The ignored classical author
DESCRIPTION:Sadly\, the man who wrote tales like Robinson Crusoe and Moll Flanders is an ignored author in the current rush to reread the Classics. Why?  Is he marred by some of his other more erotic and non-mainstream titles? Let’s discuss
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/daniel-defoe-the-ignored-classical-author/
CATEGORIES:Books and Literature Meeting,Frontpage
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Daniel-Defoe.jpg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260416T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260416T113000
DTSTAMP:20260717T085244Z
CREATED:20260409T151138Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260717T085244Z
UID:63519-1776335400-1776339000@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Finding the Truth in the Fog of War
DESCRIPTION:For more than a month now\, the world has held its breath ever since the Middle East was plunged into another deadly conflict between its most hard-line of sworn enemies. And as the cost in lives continues to mount\, so has the fiery rhetoric\, proving the old adage that the first casualty of war is Truth. But when none of the key players – Trump\, Netanyahu\, nor the Iranians – can be trusted to give it to us straight\, how can we\, as mere onlookers\, navigate today’s multi-media minefield to get to the true facts behind the barrage of spin\, disinformation\, and bare-faced lies that make up the so-called ‘Fog of War’. And that’s our topic this month. \nIf you haven’t yet done so\, there’s still time to join our mailing list\, which will ensure that you receive those all-important Zoom log-in details… just click here: Subscribe to the Current Affairs group
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/who-can-we-believe-in-the-fog-of-war/
CATEGORIES:Current Affairs Meeting,Frontpage
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/CA-group-Meetings-archive-image.jpg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260414T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260414T120000
DTSTAMP:20260221T144933Z
CREATED:20260221T144933Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260221T144933Z
UID:51964-1776162600-1776168000@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Mineralogy in Art
DESCRIPTION:Speaker: Doctor Chris Duffin\, Scientific Associate\, Natural History Museum\, London \nThis month Dr Chris Duffin will be focusing on the geological materials used in painting. Geological pigments have been used extensively from the earliest cave paintings to the mid-eighteenth century. From ochres used to provide light earth tones\, copper minerals used as the sources of green and blue pigments\, the intense blue of ultramarine from lapis lazuli through to gold and silver leaf. \nChris will look at some of the historical sources of the pigments\, the processing needed to make them functional and many examples of their uses. Hopefully your next visit to an art gallery will add a geological element to your view of the art. \nSubscribe to Geology
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/mineralogy-in-art/
LOCATION:Zoom
CATEGORIES:Frontpage,Geology Meeting
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260408T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260408T120000
DTSTAMP:20260411T103510Z
CREATED:20260317T100726Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260411T103510Z
UID:57784-1775644200-1775649600@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare
DESCRIPTION:Over the next decade\, AI is set to transform healthcare by introducing machines with human-like intelligence that operate with greater speed and cost-efficiency than traditional methods. This technological shift spans from wearable hardware\, such as AI-powered hearing-aids and spectacles\, to core functions like diagnosing medical conditions\, discovering new drugs\, and tailoring personalised treatment plans. Beyond patient care\, AI will streamline NHS administration and enhance public health screening initiatives\, supported by significant financial backing such as the government’s £10bn AI Investment Programme commitment through 2028/29. In this wide-ranging presentation\, Ian Hawker (East Suffolk u3a) will explore just some of these exciting opportunities. \nTo view the recording\, click here… ‘Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Healthcare’\n(recordings are for personal/private use only – please do not share this link)
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/artificial-intelligence-in-healthcare/
CATEGORIES:Frontpage,Science and Technology Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/AI-Healthcare-image-for-website.jpg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260331T150000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260331T163000
DTSTAMP:20260201T184157Z
CREATED:20260201T184157Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260201T184157Z
UID:46615-1774969200-1774974600@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:The Jimi Hendrix Experience – a study of musical expression
DESCRIPTION:Speaker: Professor Milton Mermikides \n University of Surrey  \nWhy does some music hit us straight in the gut? Why can a single guitar phrase feel joyful\, unsettling\, or transcendent? \nIn this engaging and thought-provoking talk\, Professor Milton Mermikides unpacks the hidden mechanics of musical expression\, using the revolutionary work of The Jimi Hendrix Experience as his guide. Blending musical analysis with insights from science and psychology\, he reveals how structure\, sound\, and performance combine to shape emotional impact. \nFrom composition and harmony to tone\, timing\, and improvisation\, the talk explores how Hendrix’s music communicates far beyond words. It also examines how subtle performance choices can transform meaning\, turning a familiar piece into a powerful emotional event. \nThis is a talk for anyone curious about music\, creativity\, and why Hendrix still sounds so alive\, urgent\, and emotionally charged decades later. \nIf you are not already subscribed\, subscription is free and you will receive joining details and news about forthcoming Leading Edge meetings https://u3acommunities.org/subscribe-to-leading-edge/
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/the-jimi-hendrix-experience-a-study-of-musical-expression/
CATEGORIES:Frontpage,Leading-edge Research Meeting
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260325T100000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260325T233000
DTSTAMP:20260323T113416Z
CREATED:20260323T113416Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260323T113416Z
UID:59229-1774432800-1774481400@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:WASTE AND CLIMATE CHANGE 10am-11.30am Wed 25 March
DESCRIPTION:Modern consumer society is currently trapped in a “take-make-waste” cycle\, with the average person in the UK generating 620kg of waste annually—a figure contributing to 5.5% of the nation’s greenhouse gas emissions. This crisis is driven by an economic model where it is often cheaper to replace items than to fix them\, leading to a projected 70% increase in global waste by 2050. To prevent this refuse from flooding landfills and the environment\, urgent regulation is needed to transition toward a circular economy. By prioritizing the repair\, reuse\, refurbishment\, and recycling of goods\, we can break the link between economic growth and environmental degradation.
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/waste-and-climate-change-10am-11-30am-wed-25-march/
CATEGORIES:Climate Meeting,Frontpage
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/earthorbit900.jpg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260324T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260324T200000
DTSTAMP:20260322T194139Z
CREATED:20260322T194139Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260322T194139Z
UID:58962-1774378800-1774382400@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Discussion on the Poetry of Philip Larkin
DESCRIPTION:Just over a century after Philip Larkin passed away we will chat about what his poetry means to us today. We will start with his “A study of reading habits” and move on from there
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/discussion-on-the-poetry-of-philip-larkin/
CATEGORIES:Books and Literature Meeting,Frontpage
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Philip-Larkin-headstone.jpg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260324T120000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260324T130000
DTSTAMP:20260323T083819Z
CREATED:20260224T120004Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260323T083819Z
UID:55424-1774353600-1774357200@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:History Month March 2026
DESCRIPTION:History month: Tuesday 24th March at noon\, we have a guest speaker from Newcastle u3a to tell us about\, ‘Interesting News’. \nThis is a compilation of talks our speaker has given regarding fascinating events or people in history. \nNot to be missed! \n \n  \n  \n 
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/55424/
CATEGORIES:Frontpage,History Meeting
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