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Caltech

Shaking in Our Seats: Earthquake Science on the Big Screen

Saturday, November 12, 2022
1:00pm to 2:30pm
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Beckman Auditorium
  • Public Event

From the 1925 Santa Barbara quake to 1994's Northridge temblor, earthquakes have helped define the physical and cultural landscape of Southern California. For more than a century, Caltech's Seismological Laboratory has transformed understanding of earthquakes and geophysics through advanced instrumentation, data science, experimentation, engineering, and public outreach.

To celebrate the Seismo Lab's centennial, the Caltech Science Exchange, in collaboration with the Dr. Lucy Jones Center for Science and Society, will host a public event that explores the science behind onscreen earthquakes in films such as 1974's Earthquake and 2015's San Andreas. Moderated by seismologist Lucy Jones, a panel of scientists, engineers, and disaster response professionals will provide insight into what happens during and after earthquakes, how scientists and government officials interact, and the future of the field. Audience members will hear what Hollywood has gotten right—and wrong—about earthquakes, and have the opportunity to ask their own questions.

Panelists:
Lucy Jones, Founder, Dr. Lucy Jones Center for Science and Society
Domniki Asimaki, Caltech Professor of Mechanical and Civil Engineering
Chris Holden, Assemblymember, California State Assembly, 41st District
Jon O'Brien, Acting Chief Deputy, Los Angeles County Fire Department
Zhongwen Zhan, Caltech Professor of Geophysics

Arrive at 11am for an earthquake preparedness fair that will help you protect your home and loved ones. Details to follow.

Learn more and register for updates on the Caltech Science Exchange.