August 15, 2020
2:00 p.m.
“How to Make Sense of OSL without a degree in Physics”
by Tom Johansen, MD

OSL (Optically Stimulated Luminescence) is a method used to date archaeological sites and their associated artifacts. This technique uses the radiation dosimeter property of minerals such as quartz and feldspar. The method estimates when the mineral was last exposed to sunlight or sufficient heating. How does this technique really work and what are its limitations?

Tom will shine light on this topic with a description of physical attributes of light emitting sand particles and the use and limitations of OSL for archaeological dating at famous world-wide sites. Don’t miss this scholarly dissertation.

Tom Johansen, MD studied electrical engineering at the University of Minnesota and his first career was applied physics research, engineering and engineering management. When he was fifty, he entered medical school and became an ophthalmologist. He has always had a fascination with physics and mathematics and digs into how things work and why they work the way they do. Tom has been president of SAS since 2018.