The festival, which takes place across campus Sept. 22-25, promises to be an interactive experience that incorporates a wide range of activities for all ages to learn about science.
The itinerary boasts an array of lectures, demonstrations and hands-on activities like glass blowing, hosted by the Department of Chemistry and star gazing at the Washburn Observatory, hosted by the Department of Astronomy.
Participants are also encouraged to visit various science learning centers on campus.
The Geology Museum offers visitors a chance to touch volcanic rocks, peruse ancient fossil collections, and catch a glimpse rocks and minerals that glow.
At the L.R. Ingersoll Physics Museum, visitors get a hands-on approach to learn physical concepts in a kid-friendly environment as well as a chance to see instruments and photos of Nobel Prize winners.
Some units in L&S that are not typically associated with science are also involved in the festival.
UW Cinematheque will screen Bigger Than Life, a film directed by Wisconsin native, Nicholas Ray Centennial (Rebel Without a Cause). The film tells the story of a schoolteacher who undergoes Cortisone treatment after contracting a mysterious disease with mixed results that threaten his sanity and others’ safety.
The whole event is a kick-off for a university-wide tribute to an area of academia. The 2011-12 school year pays homage to science, following up on the 2010-11 school year, which was the Year of the Arts.
To find out more information about the Wisconsin Science Festival and to get the full schedule of events, visit: http://wisconsinsciencefest.org/index.html