$$ab = ba$$: You may have learned about this seemingly universal truth in grade school. However, in this class, we'll throw the commutative law of multiplication out of the window, and go back to the drawing boards to define an algebra of numbers with three imaginary units. We will begin the class with a short introduction of complex numbers, their geometric representation as points on the complex plane, and the geometric meaning of their multiplication. We will then introduce the fundamental multiplication law for quaternions, $$i^2 = j^2 = k^2 = ijk = -1$$, and show how everything about quaternions falls into place following this formula. You will also learn a few party-twister tricks that work thanks to quaternion algebra.

Radio is the original electronic "social medium;" connecting diverse groups of people through common language and shared cultural experiences. Join several DJ's and producers from WMBR Radio as we demonstrate the practical how-to's of communicating over the air. This course will introduce participants to the basic of WMBR's (MIT FM Radio station) B Control engineering training.

How can we discover exoplanets when they're so insanely hard to detect? We'll look at the current methods of discovering planets beyond our solar system and see exactly why these objects are hard to confirm. The class will also discuss what we can deduce about these planets, why this science matters, and what the future looks like for this field.