When it comes to eclipses, 99.9% right is 100% wrong. Find out why umbraphiles (lovers of eclipses and shadows) will travel great distances in pursuit of scientific discovery and the ultimate reminder of our tiny place in the universe. Angela Speck is a Professor of Astrophysics & Astronomy and Director of Astronomy within the Physics & Astronomy Department at MU. She built the MU astronomy program starting with her arrival at MU in 2002 and is responsible for mentoring MU students with an interest in pursuing Astronomy/Astrophysics. Dr. Speck recently rotated off the MU Faculty Council on University Policy Committee where she served as Chair of Diversity Enhancement. She was also a member of the congressionally appointed FACA committee: Astronomy and Astrophysics Advisory Committee (AAAC). She also co-chaired a taskforce to prepare the nation for the total solar eclipse that occurred in August 2017.

Dr. Speck’s academic career exemplifies the idea that there should be a strong synergy between the research, teaching and service components for any faculty member. She has a doctorate in Astronomy from University College London, and has been at Mizzou for almost 15 years. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx