The Aquarium has been providing free lectures and films by scientists, environmental writers, photographers and others since 1972. The Aquarium Lecture Series is presented free to the public through the generosity of the Lowell Institute, which has been providing funding for free public lectures at universities and museums since 1836. 

Lectures are free and open to the public. Registration is requested. All programs start at 7 p.m. in the Aquarium's Harborside Learning Lab, unless otherwise noted below.  Programs last approximately one hour followed by a reception.

Thursday, Nov. 20

Using Technology to Help Protect the North Atlantic Right Whale

Kerry Lagueux, Associate Scientist, New England Aquarium

The North Atlantic right whale (Eubalaena glacialis) is one of the most endangered large whales in the world, with fewer than 400 individuals. New England Aquarium's research department is employing mapping technology to help understand the patterns of risk for these cetaceans. Geographic Information Systems (GIS) is being used to visualize right whale distribution, analyze potential conflicts with humans, and assess the compliance of current regulations to protect this species. Come explore right whale habitats in 3D, visualize ships moving in right whale habitats, and understand the spatial conflict between fishing and right whales.

Kerry joined the New England Aquarium's research department in 2004 as an Associate Scientist. As a geographer, Kerry focuses on using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technology to help understand the potential conflicts between the North Atlantic right whale and human use in the ocean.

Register here for free.

 

Monday, Dec. 1

Crucial Waters - Reporting On The World's Oceans

Brian Skerry, National Geographic photographer and New England Aquarium Overseer

"The oceans are in trouble. As a photo-journalist, I feel a sense of urgency to tell that story," Brian Skerry says. "It's hard for people to understand. The ocean is so vast and deep, and from the surface, from the beach, from the fully stocked seafood restaurants, it looks healthy." Underneath the waves, however, lies a completely different story. Come hear from this photographer who has traveled all over the world and see some of his breathtaking photographs.

Brian became a certified diver at 15 and started taking photographs during his dives. He dreamed of becoming a photojournalist to tell the stories of the world beneath the waves. He has swum alongside sharks in the Bahamas and plunged into an ocean full of giant squid, among other adventures. Brian's passion largely revolves around marine conservation, especially ocean degradation and overfishing. He has been an Aquarium Overseer since 2005.

Register here for free.