It has been a tradition for the LTCC to run an annual Christmas lecture followed by a small party.  Since now is not the time to run parties, we have decided to postpone the social get-together until some time in the Spring.  However we are happy to announce that the Christmas lecture did go ahead by Zoom at 4 pm on Thursday 16 December 2021.  The talk should be accessible to a general mathematical audience.  Anyone is welcome.

Fascinating Waves and Math 
Mark Ablowitz (University of Colorado, Boulder)

Abstract:
Waves are of interest across the realm of science and mathematics and are compelling to the general public.  There is a class of waves, called solitary waves, that were observed almost 200 years ago. More recently certain solitary waves, often called solitons, have been found to posses numerous special properties. This lecture will discuss the history of these waves, and will indicate why mathematics played a crucial role in both historical and modern developments. Some applications will be described including as time permits: water waves, rogue waves and optical waves. The discussion will be general.