For our universe, galaxies and life to exist, the values of 25+ fundamental constants (force of gravity, mass of election/proton...) from physics and cosmology must have specific values. In many cases, small deviations from their exact values produces a universe without galaxies or life. These fundamental constants appear amazingly fine-tuned for the existence of our universe. There is no theory to calculate their values; they are what they are. To better understand the phenomena of fine-tuning, an interactive “machine” was built to help users learn about and simulate the tuning-in of six constants.

This demo is developed and led by Al Kovalick. Al will explain the wonders of fine-tuning using illustrations and examples from nature. Next, the approaches, structures and development of the machine/website are covered. It concludes with an interactive demo of the web-based machine.

Have questions about the Makers Lab? Visit the Makers Lab website or email us at makerslab@ucsf.edu with questions. This pop-up is open to the UCSF community.

When you register for a pop-up, the Library reserves space for you. Since many of our pop-ups have a waitlist, please cancel your registration if you can no longer attend.