Though  he died in 1996, astronomer Carl Sagan's work continues to have a tremendous impact. He influenced a generation of scientists and thinkers, taught millions about the wonders of science, and inspired the world to ask big questions.
His work enriched and entertained, from his books like Contact, Pale Blue Dot, and The Demon-Haunted World to his television series "Cosmos" (recently rebooted with new host Neil deGrasse Tyson). He helped us better understand the world around us -- and by encouraging us to be curious, courageous, and compassionate, he also helped us better understand ourselves and one another. Carl Sagan was an unparalleled scientist, storyteller, and communicator, and his contributions will be felt for years to come.
This Monday, November 9, Yale Humanist Community is honored and thrilled to host a celebration of Carl Sagan's life and legacy with a special guest: Nick Sagan, son of Carl Sagan. In a moderated discussion with YHC Executive Director Chris Stedman, Nick will talk about his father's impact, the connection between his father's work and Humanism, and his memories of growing up with Carl Sagan -- including what it was like to record a greeting for potential extraterrestrials at six years old for the Voyager Golden Record.
Our Sagan celebration will also include reflections from YHC students and faculty, and a special introduction from Dr. Debra Fischer, a Professor of Astronomy at Yale University who has discovered hundreds of extrasolar planets, including the first known multiple planet system in 1999. Dr. Fischer was awarded the Carl Sagan Award for communication in science from the American Aeronautical Society (shared with her planet-hunting colleagues).
We hope you'll join us this Monday at 7 PM in Linsly-Chittenden Hall, Room 102 at Yale -- 63 High Street, New Haven, CT -- for a conversation with Nick Sagan, and a celebration of the life and legacy of Carl Sagan.
P.S. If you'd like, click here to RSVP on Facebook and invite your friends.
Please note: Because of this event, YHC's Practical Humanism Discussion Group will not be meeting. We look forward to seeing you at the next one!
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