On Friday, November 15th, Maynooth University once again opened its doors for Science Night 2024, an exhilarating evening filled with fun, discovery, and hands-on learning. A highlight of Science Week, this family-friendly event welcomed children, students, and curious minds of all ages to delve into the marvels of science. From star-gazing to CSI-style crime investigations, robot soccer to captivating biology experiments, the night was alive with curiosity and excitement.
Our university campus buzzed with energy as attendees engaged in interactive exhibits, demonstrations, and activities. From the smallest budding scientists to seasoned science enthusiasts, there truly was something for everyone.
Visitors cheered on robot teams in fast-paced soccer matches, showcasing the creativity and engineering prowess of Maynooth’s robotics experts. Meanwhile, chemistry enthusiasts delighted in vibrant experiments, including colour-changing reactions!
Astronomy lovers gathered for star-gazing sessions, learning about constellations and the mysteries of the cosmos with the help of knowledgeable guides and state-of-the-art telescopes.
The Biology Department put on a fantastic display that brought the wonders of the natural world to life through a variety of engaging and hands-on experiments. Visitors had the opportunity to extract DNA from fruit, uncovering the molecular blueprint of life, and perform food tests to identify essential nutrients. A fascinating collection of animal skulls allowed participants to explore the diversity of species and their adaptations, while a vibrant rock pool display showcased marine biodiversity up close. Live insects and Casper the axolotl added an exciting interactive element, captivating attendees with the incredible variety of life on Earth and sparking curiosity about the biological sciences.
The Family Genomics Research Group captivated attendees with a range of engaging activities that explored the fascinating realms of the brain, genetics, and sleep science. Participants peered into microscopes to examine the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN), the brain's master clock, and discovered its crucial role in regulating circadian rhythms. Visual displays and discussions highlighted the diverse sleep requirements of animals, comparing their patterns to human sleep. A polysomnography setup offered a real-time glimpse into brain activity through EEG demonstrations, sparking curiosity about how our brains function during sleep. Creative activities added to the excitement, with children and adults crafting brain hats, building 3D models of DNA's double helix, and delving into the genetic past by analyzing "dinosaur DNA" using BLAST software to uncover remarkable connections between humans and other species.
Science Night 2024 was an unforgettable experience, made possible by the dedication of faculty, staff, and volunteers who worked tirelessly to bring science to life. With hundreds of attendees joining the celebration, the event underscored the university’s commitment to fostering curiosity and scientific literacy in the community.
We are grateful to everyone who participated, from the families who came eager to learn to the researchers and students who shared their expertise with passion and enthusiasm. Science Night continues to be a cornerstone of our efforts to inspire the next generation of scientists, and we can’t wait to see you all again next year!
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