Fromm Institute Wonders of the Universe Lecture Series

The Wonders of the Universe: A Lecture Series on Exciting Developments in Astronomy
Moderator: Andrew Fraknoi 
Winter 2025 Session
Eight Wednesdays, from 10 am to 11:40 am 

This series of non-technical talks by noted astronomers is designed to introduce our modern exploration of the universe to students who are curious about recent ideas and discoveries. Each of our speakers has been selected for his or her ability to explain science in everyday language. There will be lots of time during each session to ask questions. 

Jan. 15: Andrew Fraknoi (Fromm Institute; California Professor of the Year 2007): Where are They – Why Haven’t We Found Other Intelligent Beings in the Galaxy?

Moderator - Prof. Andrew Fraknoi, who regularly teaches astronomy courses at Fromm, retired as the Chair of the Astronomy Department at Foothill College in 2017. He has won several national prizes for his teaching and appears regularly on local and national radio explaining science in everyday language. He is the lead author of a free, electronic textbook introducing astronomy, which is now the most-frequently-used astronomy textbook in the country, and has written books and stories for teachers, children, and science fiction fans. He has organized introductory lecture series like this one for over 35 years, and founded the Silicon Valley Astronomy Lectures, which can be viewed on YouTube. The International Astronomical Union has named Asteroid 4859 Asteroid Fraknoi to recognize his contributions to the public understanding of science.