16 November 2026 17:30 - 19:30 Virtual
16 November 2026 | 17:30 - 19:30 | Virtual
The Earth is old, very old but what does ‘very old’ mean? Attempts to date the age of the Earth are many.
Bishop Ussher was not the first to try but he did explain his methodology – counting generations in the Old and New Testaments of the Bible. He assigned a creation date of October 23rd 4004 BC. His precision was admirable, his accuracy not so.
Many followed including the illustrious Lord Kelvin, top scientist of his day. He suggested the age of the earth was between 40 million and 400 million years old, based upon how long it would take the Earth to cool from a molten mass to its present state. His methodology was rigorous and the use of a range was great science, an attempt to accommodate the many uncertainties. He too was spectacularly wrong. It took the discovery, by Marie Currie, of radioactivity to give us a tool to measure the age with accuracy, a task undertaken 100 years ago by Arthur Holmes, a geologist. Holmes dated the Earth at 4.5 billion years, updated since to 4.54 billion years; a figure that satisfied the generation of earlier geologists who recognised great antiquity in the rocks but could not assign a date.
The story of deep time and its recognition will be here for you to see.
The Geological Society Night School offers an engaging way to explore geoscience through live, expert-led online sessions designed for curious and enquiring minds. The courses provide an opportunity to discover a wide range of topics within geoscience, in a format that is welcoming, flexible, and accessible. Whether your interest lies in dinosaurs, volcanoes, space, or the history of geology, each session is designed to spark curiosity and build understanding in an enjoyable and approachable way.
These evening sessions introduce geoscience topics in a clear and informal style, making it easy for anyone to take part and engage. You do not need any previous knowledge to join. Whether you are discovering geoscience for the first time or returning to a long-held interest, Night School offers a welcoming space to learn, ask questions, and explore new ideas.
For more information on Night School, including other courses that are taking place, click here.
This session will take place on Monday 16 November at 17:30 (GMT) via Zoom. Joining details will be sent out a few days before the session begins.
This module will last for approximately 2 hours.
Please note this is a live session and therefore a recording will not be made available.
Prof. Jon Gluyas
Durham University
Jon Gluyas is a geologist with 28 years experience in the petroleum industry and most recently 8 years experience in academia. He has a degree in geology (Sheffield) and PhD in geochemistry (Liverpool). Jon worked in exploration and production around the globe; initially, with BP, Jon joined the independent sector in 1996 and then formed his first company, Acorn Oil and Gas in 2001.
Jon left the oil industry for academia in 2009 to become the first appointment of a professor in geoenergy, carbon capture and storage (CCS) at Durham. His research has been on CCS as well as geothermal energy and helium exploration.
Jon has served as president of the Petroleum Exploration Society of GB, president of the Earth Sciences Teachers Association and chairman of the British Geological Survey Board. At Durham University, Jon was Head of the Earth Sciences Department and he is Dean of Knowledge Exchange and Executive Director of Durham Energy Institute.
Standard £25
Concession* £15
*The concession rate is available students, teachers, or retired individuals. Proof of concessionary status should be provided upon request.
Thanks to our educator, we have a limited number of complimentary places available on this course for those who may be facing hardship. Please contact us at nightschool@geolsoc.org.uk if you wish to be considered for one of these