Explore an extended history of Central Australia through the lens of astrophysics and the fossil record at this National Science Week 2025 event in Mparntwe (Alice Springs), organised by the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory (MAGNT). 

 Join Dr Sara Webb, award-winning astrophysicist and science communicator, Dr Adam Yates, Senior Curator of Earth Sciences, and Dr. Steve Morton, ecologist and author who will explore an extended history of Central Australia. Deep dive into the formation of the earth, through prehistoric changes in landscapes and life, and more recent changes in life in the region. 

 Central Australia is home to a diverse array of fossil sites, stretching from the precursors of multicellular life, through invertebrates to megafauna. These fossils tell a broader story about the world through the history of biological evolution and how continents and climates have changed over time. The flux of species continues through to the present day, and while climate continues to play a role in species distributions, other factors such as plate tectonics are of less significance, while invasive species and fire play increasingly important roles. 

 The event will include short talks, multimedia and interactive displays and will be hosted by Desert Knowledge Australia with MAGNT at the Desert Knowledge Australia Precinct in natural bushland just outside of Alice Springs.