BEGIN:VCALENDAR
VERSION:2.0
PRODID:-//U3A Communities - ECPv6.17.4.1//NONSGML v1.0//EN
CALSCALE:GREGORIAN
METHOD:PUBLISH
X-WR-CALNAME:U3A Communities
X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://u3acommunities.org
X-WR-CALDESC:Events for U3A Communities
REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H
X-Robots-Tag:noindex
X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H
BEGIN:VTIMEZONE
TZID:Europe/London
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:+0000
TZOFFSETTO:+0100
TZNAME:BST
DTSTART:20250330T010000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:+0100
TZOFFSETTO:+0000
TZNAME:GMT
DTSTART:20251026T010000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:+0000
TZOFFSETTO:+0100
TZNAME:BST
DTSTART:20260329T010000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:+0100
TZOFFSETTO:+0000
TZNAME:GMT
DTSTART:20261025T010000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:+0000
TZOFFSETTO:+0100
TZNAME:BST
DTSTART:20270328T010000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:+0100
TZOFFSETTO:+0000
TZNAME:GMT
DTSTART:20271031T010000
END:STANDARD
END:VTIMEZONE
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260928T150000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260928T163000
DTSTAMP:20260731T170212Z
CREATED:20260731T170212Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260731T170212Z
UID:92853-1790607600-1790613000@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:What Do We Really Know About Microplastics?
DESCRIPTION:Speaker: Prof. Iseult Lynch \n  School of Geography\, Earth and Environmental Sciences\, Professor of Environmental Nanosciences\nMicroplastics have become one of today’s most talked-about environmental issues\, but how much do we really know? \nJoin Professor Iseult Lynch of the University of Birmingham as she explores the latest scientific evidence\, separating established facts from popular assumptions. Drawing on her internationally recognised research into microplastics\, nanomaterials and environmental systems\, she will examine what current science reveals\, where uncertainties remain\, and how researchers are improving our understanding of these invisible pollutants. \nAn engaging and thought-provoking afternoon for anyone interested in science\, the environment and informed debate. \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/what-do-we-really-know-about-microplastics/
CATEGORIES:Frontpage,Leading-edge Research Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/What-Do-We-Really-Know-About-Microplastics-V1.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260922T120000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260922T130000
DTSTAMP:20260909T122607Z
CREATED:20260909T122607Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260909T122607Z
UID:93222-1790078400-1790082000@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:September is History Group Month
DESCRIPTION:We meet on Tuesday 22nd September at noon. \nWe had such a good time at our last history meeting that we will continue with the Show and Tell theme. Members can show us artefacts/ items from the past\, tell us about them and possibly why they have them. If you cannot bring an item\, maybe you can tell us about a favourite game you played as a child or film you saw or somewhere of historical importance you have visited either recently or in the past. \nHope to see you all there
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/september-is-history-group-month/
CATEGORIES:History Meeting
END:VEVENT
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:20260825T120000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260825T130000
DTSTAMP:20260729T200729Z
CREATED:20260729T200729Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260729T200729Z
UID:92824-1787659200-1787662800@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:August is Art History Month
DESCRIPTION:Tuesday August 25th at noon\, come along to a taste of American art with ‘Scenes of American Identity’. Explore a few amazing paintings by American artists which may depict American identity.
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/august-is-art-history-month/
CATEGORIES:Art History Meeting
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:20260728T120000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260728T130000
DTSTAMP:20260709T080304Z
CREATED:20260709T080301Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260709T080304Z
UID:88740-1785240000-1785243600@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:History month is July 2026
DESCRIPTION:Join us again for an afternoon of fascinating history! \nTuesday 28th July at noon. \nSame Zoom link as previously but it will be included in the reminder email a few days prior to the meeting
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/history-month-is-july-2026/
CATEGORIES:History Meeting
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:20260623T120000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260623T130000
DTSTAMP:20260608T200153Z
CREATED:20260623T110024Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260608T200153Z
UID:79663-1782216000-1782219600@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Art History month is June 2026
DESCRIPTION:Join members on Tuesday 23rd June at noon for ‘Edward Lear- more than nonsense’ led by Kate\, a guest speaker. \nZoom link as previously \nFrog
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/art-history-month-is-june-2026/
CATEGORIES:Art History Meeting
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260623T120000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260623T130000
DTSTAMP:20260608T201319Z
CREATED:20260608T201317Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260608T201319Z
UID:79699-1782216000-1782219600@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Art History Month June 23rd 2026
DESCRIPTION:Join us on Tuesday 23rd June at noon for ‘Edward Lear- More Than Nonsense’ led by Kate Scott. a guest speaker \nZoom link as previously
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/art-history-month-june-23rd-2026/
CATEGORIES:Art History Meeting
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:20260526T120000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260526T130000
DTSTAMP:20260523T205658Z
CREATED:20260526T110051Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260523T205658Z
UID:73933-1779796800-1779800400@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:May 2026 History Month
DESCRIPTION:Join us on Tuesday 26th May at noon for ‘Skeletons in the Cupboard’. Explore the lives of once famous people and work out what were the skeletons in their cupboards!
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/may-2026-history-month-2/
CATEGORIES:History Meeting
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260526T120000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260526T130000
DTSTAMP:20260523T205343Z
CREATED:20260523T205020Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260523T205343Z
UID:75434-1779796800-1779800400@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:May is History Month
DESCRIPTION:Tuesday\, 26th May at noon\, join us for ‘Skeletons in the Cupboard’. Work out what the skeletons are in the cupboards of some historical figures! \nZoom link as previously
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/may-is-history-month-2/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260526T120000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260526T130000
DTSTAMP:20260518T200717Z
CREATED:20260518T200716Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260518T200717Z
UID:73928-1779796800-1779800400@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:May 2026 History Month
DESCRIPTION:Join us on Tuesday 26th May at noon for ‘Skeletons in the Cupboard’. Explore the lives of once famous people and work out what the skeletons in their cupboards were.
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/may-2026-history-month/
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:20260523T080000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260523T170000
DTSTAMP:20260523T203713Z
CREATED:20260523T203712Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260523T203713Z
UID:75424-1779523200-1779555600@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:May is History group month
DESCRIPTION:Tuesday\, 26th May at noon\, we have ‘Skeletons in the Cupboard’. Work out what the skeletons are in the cupboards of some historical characters. \nZoom link as previously
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/may-is-history-group-month/
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
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/agenic-1.png
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR