The Florida State University Department of Physics is inviting the community into the classroom this fall to explore the science behind stars, rockets and the universe through the annual Saturday Morning Physics program.
“Saturday Morning Physics is a free-of-charge event series in which physicists present fun and interesting topics in easy-to-understand, non-technical terms,” said Kevin Fossez, assistant professor of physics and Saturday Morning Physics committee chair. “Our format is designed to engage kids with hands-on activities. Expect to take pictures!”
Since 1983, the program has welcomed hundreds of K-12 students and community members to learn about basic physics concepts from FSU faculty — both educating and inspiring attendees.
The first session, “Nuclear Cauldron, Look What’s Cooking!” takes place Sept. 27 and provides an understanding of the atomic nucleus and the science behind stars. Participants will build new elements themselves and see how elements are created during a visit to the John D. Fox Superconducting Linear Accelerator Laboratory.
The Oct. 4 session will explore quantum materials and optics and feature a visit to the National High Magnetic Field Laboratory, where attendees can see the lab’s instruments and discuss the types of research being conducted there.
The “Blast Off!” session, scheduled for Oct. 25 will be held in conjunction with FSU Discovery Days, the university’s weeklong celebration of research, creativity and discovery. This session will explore the physics of rockets through thrilling demonstrations and interactive experiments.
All Saturday Morning Physics sessions are free and open to the public. Sessions start at 9:30 a.m. and last about an hour.
Most sessions are held in Room 101 of the Richards Building, 1055 Atomic Way, on FSU’s Tallahassee campus, except for the Oct. 4 event at the National High Magnetic Field Laboratory. Parking is available near session locations.
Session dates and topics include:
- Sept. 27, Nuclear Cauldron, Look What’s Cooking!
This event includes a visit to the John D. Fox Superconducting Linear Accelerator Laboratory. Closed-toe shoes are required for entry. - Oct. 4, Exploring the World of Quantum Materials and Optics
This event is held at the National High Magnetic Field Laboratory. Closed-toe shoes are required for entry. - Oct. 11, Unlocking the Secrets of the Universe: A Fun Adventure into Classical Physics!
- Oct. 18, Smashing Atoms to Size Up the Universe
- Oct. 25, Blast Off!
This event is part of FSU Discovery Days. - Nov. 1, Quantum Adventures
- Nov. 15, Tour of the Universe
Visit the FSU Physics website for more information about Saturday Morning Physics, a detailed schedule of events and parking information.