This course will be a broad generalist’s presentation of many issues and technological potentials that confront humanity during the nuclear age that began in earnest on August 6, 1945. Like many of the powerful technologies that have emerged in the past century, our knowledge of nuclear physics presents us with yet another double-edged sword. We will begin with some history leading up to the nuclear age and basic physical principles by which Mother Nature operates. An introduction to some of the challenges, concerns and promise involved in nuclear energy and power, weaponry, medicine, astrophysics and geophysics will be discussed over these two sessions. Wise utilization of the Earth’s resources is an undercurrent to much that will be considered in these presentations.