This post is really just an acknowledgement that we are still here! There is not much to report from our two sea days. The weather on Tuesday was terrible, rain pretty much all day. Wednesday started off the same, but eventually began to clear up and it was a pretty good afternoon.
The past two days, we just ate, attended lectures, ate, napped, ate, and enjoyed the evening entertainment.
The lectures were of a relatively light subject matter, such as the origin of the universe.
This lecture, presented by Dr. Lineweaver from the Research School of Astronomy and Astrophysics at the Australian National University was both entertaining and informative. Dr. Lineweaver is a master at presenting complicated information in a manner the average person can comprehend. He did an update on what is currently know about the "big bang theory" of the universe. I have been an amateur astronomer since hand grinding the mirror for my first telescope while in high school. Nevertheless, I learned a great deal from this lecture.
Another "light subject matter" lecture was presented by Dr. Dowdesdowell of the University of Cambridge entitled " Plate Tectonics and the Shaping of South-East Asia. Dr. Dowdesdowell is another great presenter who can make complicated subject matter comprehensible. His lecture included fascinating details of how scientist actually map the sea floor.
Although a little lighter and more entertaining, George Sranko presentation on Komodo Dragons did contain some excellent information regarding the evolution of early humans.
And, resident historian, Dr. Bryan Babcock gave a lecture titled "History of Indonesia". This too was a very informative lecture. Dr. Babcock is from Texas and is an avid Longhorn fan. We have had some good natured back and forth about the Bulldogs and Longhorns football games last season.
Also I forgot to mention that between our eating, we also had a "Port Talk" each day about our upcoming destinations.
I am hoping for good weather tomorrow, although I know it will be hot and humid regardless of whether it rains. The predicted temperature is in the high 80's. Tomorrow we will be visiting Rinca Island in the Lesser Sunda Islands of Indonesia. Rinca is one of 26 small islands which comprise the Komodo National Park. We hope to see some of the famous Komodo Dragons, the worlds largest lizard. If so, I will have photos for you tomorrow.
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