The annual Science Fest at Indiana University electrified minds and ignited passions once again this year, however due to the total solar eclipse there were new changes added to the festival. Every year the Science Fest, assembled by the College of Arts and Sciences, is always held in the fall, but because the eclipse was expected to pass straight through campus, the festival got moved to the spring. With a turn out of around two thousand people, there were also new events added to the Science Fest, as well as bringing back classic events such as huge volcano explosion out of a large trash can.
Beyond the fascinating presentations and interactive exhibits, the Science Fest served as a platform for fostering collaboration and sparking innovation. The event served as a reminder that teaching a wide variety of people about science can be fun and rewarding to observe. Jo Anne Tracy, the College of Arts and Sciences Assistant Dean for Research, said, “A little kid will just come running up to me and say “Where’s the slime?!” You know they just enjoy it so much and you know I feel like it makes science very accessible to everyone and it helps the public experience science like scientists do with joy and awe and wonder.”
Isha Harbaugh explaining how “Globatariums” work.
Every field within the College of Arts and Sciences from the History of Science to Animal Behavior, Psychology and Brain Science, Biology and many more hold their own special activity at the Science Fest. One new activity that was added this year, orchestrated by the Astronomy department, were the “Globatariums.” They are planetariums that allow people to sit inside and look at the stars through tiny holes that have been cut out of the structures. Another event that was showcased at the Science Fest was the African American Dance ensemble. This was another added event and that featured a unique style of dancing.
Aside from all of the fun activities, the Science Fest is a way to help teach a new generation of aspiring scientists about the wonders of them world around them. This festival fosters a sense of community and belonging among young participants. By bringing together like-minded individuals who share a passion for science creates supportive environments where young people feel encouraged to express their ideas, ask questions, and engage in eye-opening conversations. This not only enhances their overall festival experience but also ignites a spark of enthusiasm for science and motivates them to continue exploring and learning beyond the event.
Jo Anne Tracy talking about the multitude of events the Science Fest had to offer this year.
The IU Science Fest was another success this year, and focusing on the total solar eclipse adds an awe-inspiring dimension heightening the already captivating atmosphere with a celestial spectacle. Beyond the excitement of witnessing a rare cosmic event, it serves as a powerful educational opportunity, sparking curiosity and prompting discussions about astronomy and the natural world. The event became not only a platform for scientific exploration but also a moment of collective wonder and discovery. With its ability to unite attendees in shared fascination and inspire deeper inquiries into the mysteries of the universe, an eclipse truly makes a science fest an unforgettable and cooler experience for all involved.
