PUBLIC TALK: Giant Waves on the Open Sea: Mariners' tall tales or alarming fact?

A public lecture by Paul H Taylor, Professor of Engineering Science, University of Oxford.

Giant waves are rare, and seldom recorded by reliable oceanographic instruments. However, on 1 January 1995 a sensor on a platform in the central North Sea recorded a giant 60ft high wave crest, so 'freak' waves are not just mariners' tall tales. What physics drives such waves? Is a 'wall of water' plausible? How should engineers design ships and offshore structures to survive rare but potentially catastrophic events?

Cost: Free, but RSVP requested via the website