One of our guest speakers: “Professor 007”

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Published on Friday, 28 October 2011 12:18

When this man watches James Bond films, he does so with different eyes. His name is Tolan, Metin Tolan, and his eyes are those of a professor of experimental physics. It all began with a visit to the cinema to see “Goldeneye,” in which Agent 007 chases an unmanned light aircraft while riding a motorbike. Both of these machines tumble down a cliff and James Bond jumps from the motorcycle into the aircraft’s cockpit.

“What conditions would be necessary for a jump like that?” Tolan wondered – and two days later he had the answer: “James Bond would have to be 14 times more streamlined than the aeroplane … which is in fact impossible.”

This scientific calculation was the beginning of a passion that still continues today. The 47-year-old professor at the University of Dortmund spends his free time analysing the technical tricks in the James Bond films. And other people are interested in his results, too: Tolan gives lectures not only at his own university, but also right across Germany. His talks are full of fascinating and exciting information about stunts and technical treats. And his conclusion? James Bond does not always follow the laws of physics very strictly, but when it comes to enjoying life, he knows exactly what works – there is a physical reason for drinking his vodka martini shaken, not stirred – even though it is meant as a bit of a joke. It has to do with the fact that up to now James Bond has never once had time to drain his glass.

Join us in looking forward to some entertaining and exciting explanations!