Wendy Slimane, Sarah Chew and and John Raine
Visitors to this year’s TechFest festival will have the chance to explore the depths of space and discover the science behind historic missions, the evolution of our solar system and the future of space exploration.
TechFest 2019 will bring top astronomers from across Scotland to this year’s annual festival in September, to commemorate the 50th anniversary since the moon landing.
Supported by joint principal sponsors BP and Shell, the North-east’s annual festival of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), will run until September 28 with families encouraged to test their science and engineering skills at hands-on workshops.
Join Glasgow University Astronomer, Martin Hendry and the Aberdeen Astronomical Society on a voyage of discovery in To the Moon and Back (September 11) and explore the science and technology behind Neil Armstrong’s giant leap for humankind during Apollo 11.
This fascinating talk celebrates the 50th anniversary of the legendary mission - and prepare for some debunking fun as Martin critiques some of the most popular moon landing conspiracy theories.
Rocks, Stars and Rockstar Rockets: Constellation Making, Handling rocks from Space and Rocket Engineering Competition (September 21) will allow the audience to study the stars and create a constellation picture.
This interactive drop in workshop is great fun for all the family, while larger groups can create a number of constellations to help build a night sky mural.
Presented by Alastair Bruce and Matjaz Vidmar from the University of Edinburgh, attendees will also be able to handle some “rocks from space” and find out how we use meteorites to understand the evolution of our only solar system.
Alastair and Matjaz will also present From Charles Piazza Smyth to Scottish Spaceport: 200 years of reaching for the stars (September 21) and link the rich history of astronomy and space science in Scotland with present day ambition.
This engaging talk will look into what really is ‘fake news’ and how science, engineering and rest of the society are co-evolving ideas about the future of space exploration.
Sarah Chew, managing director of TechFest, said: “This year marks 50 years since the moon landing and has got us all thinking about the advancements in space along with the STEM principles behind it.
“We’re excited to bring some of Scotland’s top astronomers to the TechFest 2019 festival where we can all learn more about these historical moments in STEM history as well as what the future looks like for our solar system.
“The events offer attendees the chance to get involved with fun activities as well as learn about the theory. We want to thank all of those presenting for helping bring alive space science.”
TechFest is an Aberdeen-based charity which aims to promote STEM activities to young people and the wider community.
With a theme of Made in Aberdeen, TechFest’s new programme of workshops, shows and presentations will run at venues across the city.