Make an impact (crater) during free “cool science” day at Western

Prof. Jan Cami, associate professor of physics and astronomy and director of the Hume Cronyn Memorial Observatory, with a solar telescope that will be in use during Western's first Science Rendezvous on May 13, 2017.

Build a rocket, control a RoboRoach, pan for gold, see the Sun’s glowing hot gas and shoot gummy bears from a slingshot – all in one afternoon. Londoners can fill a free passport to discovery at Western University through Science Rendezvous, a national outreach event for Londoners of all ages. Participants can also create slime, make an impact crater and build a working Mars rover out of Lego.

Starting at the Hume Cronyn Memorial Observatory, participants will travel across the solar system as they participate in hands-on science activities offered in 13 booths. On a central stage, scientists will also present live shows featuring watermelons, paleontology, “mind control” and real (controlled) explosions. The afternoon-long event is a collaborative effort of the Departments of Science and Engineering, and the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry. This is Western’s inaugural Science Rendezvous, a festival of exploration at Canadian universities.

“This is all incredibly cool, amazing and fun science,” said Jan Cami, associate professor of physics and astronomy and director of the Hume Cronyn observatory. “This is our way of giving back. We hope to share with our visitors some of the excitement, wonder and discovery that we have the privilege of living every day.”

 WHAT: Science Rendezvous, a free day of hands-on fun science for the whole family

WHEN: May 13, 2017, 2 – 5 p.m.

WHERE:  Across Western University campus, with starting point (and map/passport) at Hume Cronyn Memorial Observatory

FOR MORE: https://www.sciencerendezvous.ca/event_sites/western-university/

OF NOTE: The event is free and parking at the Springett lot (just south of Huron College off Western Road) is also free. Several food trucks will be on hand to keep participants refreshed.

CONTACTS: Professor Jan Cami,, Western University, 519-661-2111 ex 80978 and jcami@uwo.ca ; Parshati Patel, Centre for Planetary Science and Exploration ppatel54@uwo.ca

MEDIA CONTACT: Debora Van Brenk, Media Relations Officer, 519-661-2111 on mobile at 519-318-0657 or at deb.vanbrenk@uwo.ca

ABOUT WESTERN: Western University delivers an academic experience second to none. Since 1878, The Western Experience has combined academic excellence with life-long opportunities for intellectual, social and cultural growth in order to better serve our communities. Our research excellence expands knowledge and drives discovery with real-world application. Western attracts individuals with a broad worldview, seeking to study, influence and lead in the international community.

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Prof. Jan Cami, associate professor of physics and astronomy and director of the Hume Cronyn Memorial Observatory, with a solar telescope that will be in use during Western's first Science Rendezvous on May 13, 2017.