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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250909T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250909T120000
DTSTAMP:20250905T154831Z
CREATED:20250905T154831Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250905T154831Z
UID:10046-1757413800-1757419200@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Volcanic Tsunamis
DESCRIPTION:Speaker: Dr Sebastian Watt\, Associate Professor of Earth Sciences\, and Head of Education\, School of Geography\, Earth and Environmental Sciences\, University of Birmingham \nDr Watt’s research investigates the physical and chemical processes that control how volcanoes behave and develop in the long-term. Most of his work focuses on volcanism in subduction zones. Current projects include looking at past explosive eruptions by analysing the layers of tephra ejected\, studies of large-scale volcanic landslides and associated hazards\, and the chemistry and evolution of monogenetic volcanic systems which only erupt once before being classed as extinct. \nSubscribe to Geology
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/volcanic-tsunamis/
LOCATION:Zoom
CATEGORIES:Frontpage,Geology Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/tsunami-wave-crashing-into-city-damaging-structures-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250827T100000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250827T113000
DTSTAMP:20250821T125801Z
CREATED:20250821T125801Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250821T125801Z
UID:9944-1756288800-1756294200@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:HUMAN MIGRATION AND CLIMATE CHANGE 10am Wed 27 Aug
DESCRIPTION:Over the past million years human migration has been largely driven by climate change. Since the industrial revolution green house has emissions have resulted in human generated climate change. Average global temperature have risen to 1.4C above pre-industrial levels\, with a projected rise of 2.5-2.9C by 2100. This will generate an estimated >1 billion climate migrants (external & internal) mainly from poorer equatorial countries. A managed population retreat to cooler northern countries is needed to minimise conflict. \nianhawker101@gmail.com \nhttps://us02web.zoom.us/j/85308474844?pwd=zbCVKQeCoeNgZwKnMw6PIDrjVs0VbI.1 \nMeeting ID: 853 0847 4844\nPasscode: Saturn
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/human-migration-and-climate-change-10am-wed-27-aug/
CATEGORIES:Climate Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/globalheating900.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250826T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250826T200000
DTSTAMP:20250825T084205Z
CREATED:20250825T084205Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250825T084205Z
UID:9969-1756234800-1756238400@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Books and Literature Meeting ...... What's happened to Biggles?
DESCRIPTION:Sorry to revive memories but Biggles flew through most of our childhoods and has now vanished almost completely. He starred in 99 novels but try and find them in a public library or even a charity bookshop. They are not there. \nSo what has happened? Why has he diasappered like Spam\, Viennetta and fondue meals? \nLet’s discuss …………
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/books-and-literature-meeting-whats-happened-to-biggles/
CATEGORIES:Books and Literature Meeting,Frontpage
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Biggles.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250819T150000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250819T170000
DTSTAMP:20250727T100648Z
CREATED:20250727T100216Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250727T100648Z
UID:9729-1755615600-1755622800@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Real time bidding (how targeted ads work)
DESCRIPTION:19th August @ 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm\n\n\n\nThis month we look at the Real Time Bidding (RTB) system – this is the mechanism that provides targeted ads to your web pages and devices.  We’ll cover the basic mechanism\, what data is held\, how do they know it’s you\, main companies involved\, pros & cons and what can be done. \nPlenty of time is reserved for discussions. \nJoining details will be emailed to subscribers nearer the time.  If you aren’t a member\, it’s free to join here https://u3acommunities.org/subscribe-to-computing-forum/.
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/real-time-bidding-how-targeted-ads-work/
CATEGORIES:Computing Meeting,Frontpage
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/rtb.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250812T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250812T120000
DTSTAMP:20250627T171316Z
CREATED:20250612T171345Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250627T171316Z
UID:9467-1754994600-1755000000@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Meteorites
DESCRIPTION:Speaker: Dr Helena Bates\, Post Doctural Researcher Natural History Museum\, London \nDr Bates is working to unravel the history of an unusual group of carbonaceous chondrite meteorites that are believed to be similar to a certain group of water bearing asteroids. These include meteorites which are the targets of sample return missions Hayabusa2 and OSIRIS-REx. \nHer aims are to compare these meteorites with those we have on Earth to learn more about asteroid evolution. \nSubscribe to Geology
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/meterorites/
LOCATION:Zoom
CATEGORIES:Frontpage,Geology Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/space-scene-background-with-meteorites-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250728T150000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250728T163000
DTSTAMP:20250707T081541Z
CREATED:20250706T180601Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250707T081541Z
UID:9648-1753714800-1753720200@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:The Robotic Alchemist - Digital Chemistry
DESCRIPTION:Speaker: Lee Cronin\, Regius Professor – Chair of Chemistry\,  \n  University of Glasgow  \nProf. Lee Cronin is a leading figure in the fields of chemistry\, artificial intelligence\, and robotics. His groundbreaking work focuses on digitizing chemistry and automating chemical discovery\, earning him the nickname “The Robotic Alchemist.”\nCoined by Cronin\, “chemputation” refers to the computational execution of chemical synthesis.\nThe Chemputer is a universal\, programmable chemical robot that executes chemical synthesis from digital code. It reduces chemistry to uniform operations—such as mixing\, heating\, and filtering—that can be executed by machines.\nIt is capable of running hundreds of experiments in parallel and aims to create a global digital ecosystem for chemistry\, enabling collaboration\, reproducibility\, and acceleration of discovery.\nXDL (Chemical Description Language) is a formal language to write and share chemical procedures\, similar to source code for computers. XDL is written to control robotic synthesis platforms.\nRobotic Platforms use machine learning to optimize reactions\, identify new compounds\, or rediscover forgotten ones e.g finding inorganic molecules with therapeutic potential.\nHis innovations have accelerated molecular discovery\, reduced experimental waste\, and are making chemistry more universally programmable. \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-robotic-alchemist-digital-chemistry/
CATEGORIES:Frontpage,Leading-edge Research Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/The-Robotic-Alchemist-Digital-Chemistry.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250723T100000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250723T113000
DTSTAMP:20250717T133130Z
CREATED:20250717T133130Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250717T133130Z
UID:9700-1753264800-1753270200@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:UK CLIMATE IN TRANSITION
DESCRIPTION:The UK climate is undergoing a significant transition driven by global climate change. We are seeing hotter dryer summers\, with more frequent heat waves impacting health. Also warmer wetter winters increasing flooding and affecting agriculture cycles. Associated with these changes is coastal erosion\, sea level rise and more wildfires. Government lead climate mitigation and adaptation actions are becoming more urgent. In its July report the Climate Change Committee produced a list of top 10 recommendations for consideration by the government. We review these issues and discuss the way forward. \nian hawker101@gmail.com
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/uk-climate-in-transition/
CATEGORIES:Climate Meeting,Frontpage
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/climate-change-2063240_1280.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250722T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250722T200000
DTSTAMP:20250721T131734Z
CREATED:20250721T131734Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250721T131734Z
UID:9710-1753210800-1753214400@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Books and Literature Meeting ...... Relevance of Scoop today
DESCRIPTION:Back in 1938 Evelyn Waugh wrote the satire of sensational journalism and foreign correspondents called Scoop. \nIt  was named among the Best 100 Novels of the Twentieth Century. \nBut how relevant is his work to journalism today?
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/books-and-literature-meeting-relevance-of-scoop-today/
CATEGORIES:Books and Literature Meeting,Frontpage
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Scoop-Evelyn-Waugh.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250722T120000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250722T130000
DTSTAMP:20250716T171057Z
CREATED:20250716T171056Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250716T171057Z
UID:9691-1753185600-1753189200@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:July is ART HISTORY month: A Knight with a Paint Brush
DESCRIPTION:Join us on Tuesday\, 22nd July at 12noon for \nA Knight with a Paint Brush: \nWe will open with a brief exploration of a few of the works of Laura Knight\, a pioneering artist. This will be followed by focusing on ‘The Beach’. It exemplifies her talent for her talent for creating atmospheric scenes with warmth.
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/july-is-art-history-month-a-knight-with-a-paint-brush/
CATEGORIES:Art History Meeting
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250717T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250717T113000
DTSTAMP:20260515T162851Z
CREATED:20250601T102842Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260515T162851Z
UID:9365-1752748200-1752751800@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Freedom of Speech
DESCRIPTION:“I disapprove of what you say\, but I’ll defend to the death your right to say it”. This famous quotation\, usually – but incorrectly – attributed to the pioneering Enlightenment-era philosopher Voltaire\, neatly sums up that great libertarian principle of ‘Freedom of Speech’. And it shouldn’t be controversial\, enshrined as it has been\, for over 70 years\, in the UN’s Universal Declaration of Human Rights (Article 19). Yet even today\, under totalitarian regimes the world over\, it’s still too dangerous to speak one’s mind in public. \nBut freedom of speech is now facing challenges in liberal democracies too. From its roots in the largely benign concept of ‘PC’ (political correctness)\, the threat morphed into the more socially-charged ‘Woke’ culture\, which has bred violence on our streets\, persecution of dissenting individuals (especially academics)\, and culminating in the cruel sanction of ‘cancellation’ – which denies them a platform\, and all too often ends their careers. Add to that the often overblown accusations of double-standards (with regard to enforcement) increasingly being levelled by pressure groups against their national Governments\, the Police\, and/or the Judiciary\, and it’s clear that freedom of speech is in trouble. So\, at this month’s meeting\, we’ll examine the issues involved\, and how they might be addressed. \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 \n  \n 
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/freedom-of-speech/
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:20250715T150000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250715T170000
DTSTAMP:20250708T131612Z
CREATED:20250623T114121Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250708T131612Z
UID:9571-1752591600-1752598800@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Ask the group anything
DESCRIPTION:15 July @ 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm\n\nThis month we are trying out something different … 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 rsk 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 this format works\, perhaps we’ll run it periodically. \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/
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:20250709T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250709T120000
DTSTAMP:20250727T091544Z
CREATED:20250616T112637Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250727T091544Z
UID:9488-1752057000-1752062400@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:The History of Timekeeping: From Stonehenge to Strontium
DESCRIPTION:Ever since the advent of agriculture\, our ancestors needed a way to measure the passing of time; not just the time of day but\, more importantly\, the time of year as well. Nowadays\, we’re surrounded by gadgets which do this for us\, but back then they had to work it all out for themselves. In this talk\, John Cosier\, of Bognor Regis u3a\, will take a look back at the development of calendars and clocks\, from the primitive to the hi-tech\, and along the way he’ll also explain the origins of the seven-day week\, the 24-hour day\, the 60-minute hour\, and the 60-second minute. I’m sure you’ll want to make ‘time’ for this fascinating story! \nTo view the recording\, click here… ‘The History of Timekeeping’\n(the recording is 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-history-of-timekeeping-from-stonehenge-to-strontium/
CATEGORIES:Frontpage,Science and Technology Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Origins-of-Timekeeping-high-res.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250708T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250708T120000
DTSTAMP:20250627T171215Z
CREATED:20250612T111103Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250627T171215Z
UID:9459-1751970600-1751976000@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:The Stonehenge Bluestones controversy
DESCRIPTION:Speaker: Geoff Barratt \nGeoff will be talking to us about the Stonehenge Bluestones and the ongoing controversy about where they originally came from. \nJoin us and find out about the bluestones\, the various hypotheses around where they came from and the latest developments in this ongoing controversy. \nSubscribe to Geology
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/the-stonehenge-bluestones-controversy/
LOCATION:Zoom
CATEGORIES:Frontpage,Geology Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/architecture-ancient-monument-world-heritage-day-celebration.jpg-scaled.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250630T150000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250630T163000
DTSTAMP:20250613T155209Z
CREATED:20250522T202021Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250613T155209Z
UID:9283-1751295600-1751301000@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Hybrid Intelligence: augmenting human intellect with Artificial Intelligence
DESCRIPTION:Speaker: Professor Prof. Catholijn M. Jonker \n Delft University of Technology  \nProf. Jonker’s research moves beyond viewing AI as a replacement for human intelligence. Instead\, she develops systems that collaborate with and enhance human capabilities\, creating Hybrid Intelligence (HI)—a blend of human and artificial intelligence aimed at achieving goals neither could reach alone.\nHI integrates the strengths of humans (like creativity\, ethics\, and context) with those of machines (such as data processing and scalability). It emphasizes co-learning\, co-adaptation\, and mutual understanding\, focusing on empowering rather than replacing humans.\nThis marks a shift from AI for automation to AI for augmentation\, advocating for the co-evolution of humans and machines through trust\, learning\, and ethical collaboration—envisioning AI as a partner\, not a competitor.  \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-artificial-intelligence-to-hybrid-intelligence/
CATEGORIES:Frontpage,Leading-edge Research Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/From-Artificial-intelligence-to-Hybrid-intelligence-16x9-v2.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250625T100000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250625T113000
DTSTAMP:20250619T105526Z
CREATED:20250619T105526Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250619T105526Z
UID:9526-1750845600-1750851000@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:THE OCEANS AND CLIMATE CHANGE
DESCRIPTION:The oceans play a fundamental role in the Earth’s climate system. They cover about 71% of the planet’s surface and have a massive capacity to absorb and store heat and carbon dioxide (CO2​). This crucial function helps regulate global temperatures and mitigate the impacts of climate change. However\, increasing greenhouse gas emissions from human activities are significantly affecting the oceans\, leading to a range of concerning changes. \nIan Hawker \nianhawker101@gmail.com
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/the-oceans-and-climate-change-2/
CATEGORIES:Climate Meeting,Frontpage
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Earth-edited.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250624T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250624T200000
DTSTAMP:20250622T141707Z
CREATED:20250622T141218Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250622T141707Z
UID:9554-1750791600-1750795200@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Contrasting styles of two Great Authors
DESCRIPTION:Our intended debate on the creative processs of Ernest Hemingway has been updated to now compare and contrast him with the late Frederick Forsyth. \nWe can discuss the different styles both brought to writing and the way they drew readers into buying volumes of their works. \nYet at the same time they possessed many similarities. \nJoin us to discuss the topic. \n  \n 
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/contrasting-styles-of-two-great-authors/
CATEGORIES:Books and Literature Meeting,Frontpage
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Ernest-Hemingway.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250624T120000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250624T130000
DTSTAMP:20250620T155818Z
CREATED:20250619T224948Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250620T155818Z
UID:9530-1750766400-1750770000@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:
DESCRIPTION:Tuesday\, 24th June at 12 noon\, is the history meeting. The title is ‘Unsung Heroes Who Have Changed the World’. Although these heroes are mainly from the North East\, they have changed people’s lives for decades. Let’s discover who they are. \nNext month is Art History on July 22nd at 12-1pm
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/9530/
CATEGORIES:History Meeting
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250619T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250619T113000
DTSTAMP:20260515T163018Z
CREATED:20250617T100209Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260515T163018Z
UID:9509-1750329000-1750332600@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:The Israel-Iran Crisis
DESCRIPTION:This week\, in a change from our previously-advertised subject\, we will now be discussing the escalating conflict that has erupted between Israel and Iran. Could it have been avoided\, or was a military showdown between these implacable enemies always inevitable? And with missiles now raining down on both countries\, is a peace deal even possible\, and if so\, who (if not the UN) has the trust of both sides to mediate it? Finally\, as has already been suggested by Israeli PM Netanyahu\, is it realistic to hope for an uprising by the Iranian people to overthrow Supreme Leader Khamenei’s authoritarian regime\, and should Western powers be more openly supportive of that objective? Lots of questions\, but no easy answers! \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 \n 
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/the-israel-iran-crisis/
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:20250617T150000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250617T170000
DTSTAMP:20250527T090858Z
CREATED:20250526T115851Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250527T090858Z
UID:9332-1750172400-1750179600@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Installing desktop GNU/Linux
DESCRIPTION:17th June 2025 at 3pm UK \nThis month we look at installing desktop GNU/Linux.  The talk will be demo focused. \nPlenty of time is reserved for discussions. \nJoining details will be emailed to subscribers nearer the time.  If you aren’t a member\, it’s free to join here https://u3acommunities.org/subscribe-to-computing-forum/. \n 
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/installing-desktop-gnu-linux/
CATEGORIES:Computing Meeting,Frontpage
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/installinglinux.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250611T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250611T120000
DTSTAMP:20250615T095929Z
CREATED:20250522T142613Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250615T095929Z
UID:9269-1749637800-1749643200@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Schrodinger's Paradox\, Intelligent Design and the Origin of Life
DESCRIPTION:This month’s talk\, by Claudio Elgueta of Abingdon U3A\, is based on a famous lecture from 1943\, given by the great Erwin Schrodinger in Dublin\, where he’d fled from Nazi Germany. Entitled ‘What is Life?’\, Schrodinger approached this profound question from a physicist’s standpoint\, beginning with the paradox arising from the Second Law of Thermodynamics\, specifically\, how is it that life creates order in the world\, when disorder – or entropy\, as it’s known – should (if the Law is correct) be the result of every physical interaction in nature? After addressing this paradox\, Claudio will then review the various science-based theories of the origins of life\, and also the pseudo-scientific ‘theory’ of Intelligent Design\, a creationist belief founded on the flawed concept of ‘irreducible complexity’\, famously destroyed in a Pennsylvania court-room in 2005. Rather\, as Claudio will explain\, it is Richard Dawkins’ concept of ‘Climbing Mount Improbable’ which – although we can’t yet be sure of all the details – provides the most robust\, evidence-based theory of how complex life evolved naturally from simple molecules. \nTo view the recording\, click here…‘Schrodingers Paradox & the Origin of Life’ \nTo contact us about the Science & Technology group\, click here… Get in touch
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/schrodingers-paradox-intelligent-design-and-the-origin-of-life/
CATEGORIES:Frontpage,Science and Technology Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Hydrothermal-vent-image-for-Jun-25.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250610T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250610T120000
DTSTAMP:20250609T070626Z
CREATED:20250609T070626Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250609T070626Z
UID:9441-1749551400-1749556800@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Deep geothermal: From the hottest of the hot to dissolved resources
DESCRIPTION:Speaker: Dr Chris Rochelle \nBritish Geological Survey (BGS)\n \nDr Rochelle will be talking to us about deep and hotter geothermal resources\, abroad and in the UK\, and dissolved metals\, such as lithium. \nDr Rochelle has over 30 years research experience of various aspects of the geochemistry of fluid-rock interactions. Most of his work has strong linkages to ‘energy’ issues\, and in particular securing sources of it and disposing of waste products from it. \nJoin us and find out more about how the role deep geothermal processes and resources have to play in our modern lives. \nSubscribe to Geology
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/deep-geothermal-from-the-hottest-of-the-hot-to-dissolved-resources/
LOCATION:Zoom
CATEGORIES:Frontpage,Geology Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/high-angle-model-renewable-energy-with-geothermal-power-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250528T100000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250528T233000
DTSTAMP:20250522T175645Z
CREATED:20250522T175645Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250522T175645Z
UID:9274-1748426400-1748475000@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Climate Crisis and Artificial Intelligence
DESCRIPTION:Artificial intelligence is playing a crucial role in fighting climate change by providing advanced tools for monitoring\, predicting\, mitigating\, and adapting to its impacts. AI can analyze vast datasets from satellites\, weather stations\, and other sensors to improve climate models. AI optimizes the deployment\, management\, and integration of renewable energy sources like solar and wind power. However\, AI-powered processes can consume significant amounts of energy. It’s important to develop and implement AI solutions in an energy-efficient manner and ensure that the benefits of AI in combating climate change outweigh its own energy footprint. \nTopic: Climate Crisis Meeting\nTime: May 28\, 2025 10:00 AM London\nJoin Zoom Meeting\nhttps://us02web.zoom.us/j/82178391392?pwd=v9xCxwsjE44Gf0bxS7nf6JJUKiCgjd.1 \nMeeting ID: 821 7839 1392\nPasscode: Saturn
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/climate-crisis-and-artificial-intelligence/
CATEGORIES:Climate Meeting,Frontpage
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/network-8192962_1920.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250527T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250527T200000
DTSTAMP:20250526T095425Z
CREATED:20250526T095425Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250526T095425Z
UID:9315-1748372400-1748376000@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Discussion on the biggest sales in literature
DESCRIPTION:Using the historical aspect of this section of literature\, we enter the world of cookery. \nElizabeth David tried to rejuvenate diets after the Second World War with cook books. \nBut her efforts are as much travel guides as culinary. \nBut it set the pathway for dozens of others to follow. \nSo why are chefs so popular? \nJoin us to discuss the topic. \n  \n 
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/discussion-on-the-biggest-sales-in-literature/
CATEGORIES:Books and Literature Meeting,Frontpage
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/chicken-steak-topped-with-white-sesame-peas-tomatoes-broccoli-pumpkin-white-plate-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250527T120000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250527T130000
DTSTAMP:20250518T182037Z
CREATED:20250518T114333Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250518T182037Z
UID:9194-1748347200-1748350800@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Art History: Vengeance or Vision?
DESCRIPTION:May is our Art History month. We will be exploring the life and works of Artemisia Gentileschi and asking ourselves\, ‘Was her work a product of vengeance or vision?’
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/art-history-vengeance-or-vision/
CATEGORIES:Art History Meeting,Frontpage
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250526T150000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250526T163000
DTSTAMP:20250516T065245Z
CREATED:20250423T200723Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250516T065245Z
UID:9058-1748271600-1748277000@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:The JWST Mission and MIRI Instrument: Infrared Views of the Universe
DESCRIPTION:Speaker: Professor Gillian Wright \n Director of the UK Astronomy Technology Centre & Head of Site for the Royal Observatory Edinburgh \nThe James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) is transforming astronomy with its advanced infrared capabilities.\nIts Mid-Infrared Instrument (MIRI) enables deep-space imaging\, detecting exoplanets\, distant galaxies\, and cosmic dust. MIRI’s unparalleled sensitivity reveals early universe structures\, star formation processes\, and planetary atmospheres\, expanding our understanding of the cosmos. \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-jwst-mission-and-particularly-miri/
CATEGORIES:Frontpage,Leading-edge Research Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/JWST-MIRI.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250522T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250522T113000
DTSTAMP:20260515T163244Z
CREATED:20250420T094436Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260515T163244Z
UID:9030-1747909800-1747913400@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:The Mental Health Crisis
DESCRIPTION:Here in the UK\, this week has been officially designated as ‘Mental Health Awareness Week’. And if that’s news to you\, you’re not alone\, because domestic and global events seem to be unfolding at an ever faster pace\, with which it’s increasingly difficult to keep up. That\, and the unrelenting pressure\, especially on young people\, to manage their hectic lives\, strained finances\, and societal expectations\, has led inevitably to a burgeoning mental health crisis across the developed world (see link [Guardian\, Mar’25]. So\, at this month’s meeting\, we’ll explore the problem\, and ask what needs to be done to save this so-called ‘lost generation’ from lives of misery and despair. \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 \n 
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/next-current-affairs-group-meeting-thurs-15th-may/
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:20250520T150000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250520T170000
DTSTAMP:20250511T074140Z
CREATED:20250422T102417Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250511T074140Z
UID:9045-1747753200-1747760400@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Local Generative AI
DESCRIPTION:20th May 2025 at 3pm UK\n\nThis month\, we discuss some of the options and issues about running your own Generative AI at home.  As well as avoiding privacy issues with online Generative AI and reducing AI bills\, it’s always fun to have a tinker to find out what’s possible.  Will include several demos.\n\nJoining details will be emailed to subscribers nearer the time.  If you aren’t a member\, it’s free to join here https://u3acommunities.org/subscribe-to-computing-forum/.\n\nPlenty of time is reserved for discussions.
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/local-generative-ai/
CATEGORIES:Computing Meeting,Frontpage
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/localgenai.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250514T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250514T120000
DTSTAMP:20250604T182504Z
CREATED:20250412T114202Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250604T182504Z
UID:8976-1747218600-1747224000@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:The Environmental Impact of the Textile Industry
DESCRIPTION:‘Fast Fashion Fuelling Global Waste Crisis\, UN Chief Warns’ was the shocking headline of a recent report from the UN. But that’s only part of the story\, because the clothing industry is damaging to people and places all down the line\, from the production of the raw materials (both natural and synthetic)\, through the various stages of garment manufacture\, packaging\, distribution and marketing\, how we as consumers care for them\, and finally\, how we dispose of those we no longer want. In this thought-provoking presentation\, Helen Howard (Canterbury u3a) will introduce us to some of the main issues that we should all be concerned about. \nTo view the recording\, click here…‘Environmental impact of textiles’ \nTo contact us about the Science & Technology group\, click here… Get in touch
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/the-environmental-impact-of-the-textile-industry/
CATEGORIES:Frontpage,Science and Technology Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Textile-waste-image-for-May-25.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250513T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250513T120000
DTSTAMP:20250512T162633Z
CREATED:20250413T092929Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250512T162633Z
UID:8995-1747132200-1747137600@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Using geothermal heat flow to aid the transition to green mining
DESCRIPTION:Speaker: Dr Simon Stephenson \nAscension Earth Resources\n \nDr Stephenson will be talking to us about green mining and how we can find and extract mineral resources new and more environmentally friendly ways. \nIn his role Ascension Earth Resources\, he combines a variety of multi-disciplinary techniques to explore the formation and novel development of mineral resources. \nJoin us and find out more about the vital role green mining has to play in supporting our modern and future lives. \nSubscribe to Geology
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/green-mining/
LOCATION:Zoom
CATEGORIES:Frontpage,Geology Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/371px-Contour_map_software_screen_snapshot_of_isopach_map_for_8500ft_deep_OIL_reservoir_with_a_Fault_line.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250428T143000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250428T160000
DTSTAMP:20250414T062804Z
CREATED:20250414T062804Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250414T062804Z
UID:9004-1745850600-1745856000@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:A CRISPR way to precisely Edit the Genome
DESCRIPTION:Speaker: Dr Andrew Bassett  \n Head of Cellular and Gene Editing Research\, Sanger Institute \nThe Sanger Institute is arguably the foremost institute in the UK on gene editing.\nCRISPR is a groundbreaking genome-editing technology that allows precise modifications to DNA.\nBy harnessing a natural bacterial defense mechanism\, CRISPR enables scientists to cut and edit genetic material with unprecedented accuracy.\nThis revolutionary tool is transforming medicine\, biotechnology\, and genetic research\, offering potential treatments for genetic disorders\, cancer\, and infectious diseases.\nCRISPR’s efficiency\, specificity\, and versatility make it a powerful method for studying gene functions\, engineering cells\, and advancing personalized medicine. \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/a-crispr-way-to-precisely-edit-the-genome/
CATEGORIES:Frontpage,Leading-edge Research Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Gene-editing-16X9-v2.jpg
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR