Science festival kicks off in city centre
As part of the celebration of Manchester being the UK’s first European City of Science, a free week-long festival will celebrate the wonders of science in the city centre over the next week.
More than 40 free pop-up public events will bring science to life across Manchester and each event is designed to engage and inspire friends and family. There will be talks, discussions, debates and workshops with scientists at the heart of the Science in the City festival base located at Manchester Metropolitan University on Oxford Street.
Here are our picks of what you can get up to during the celebrations…
Incredible Power of Light roadshow, Friday 22 July- Monday 1 August at the National Football Museum
The Incredible Power of Light roadshow showcases the unparalleled range of state-of-the-art laser technology in the UK and how our scientists carry out a broad range of pioneering experiments that through advanced research develop into real world applications. The roadshow features demonstrations, information and interactive exhibits that will enthuse visitors on the impact that this special invention has had. The free exhibition is open 10am – 5pm.
Tiny Science: Pi: Platform for Investigation, Saturday 23 – Sunday 24 July at Manchester Arndale
Over the opening weekend of the festival Exchange Court at the Manchester Arndale will be transformed from 11am to 4pm into an exciting setting for live experiments. Discover ‘really small science’ alongside expert engineers and scientists who will help you explore the world of tiny particles. You will also get a chance to explore how Manchester scientists produced graphene, the world’s first 2D material, and have a try yourself!
Human Sensor, Saturday 23 – Friday 29 July at various city centre locations
Witness the Human Sensor by artist Kasia Molga , a unique new design for hi-tech clothing that lights up dramatically in response to the wearers breathing and air pollution data. Performers modelling the hi-tech clothing will reveal the presence of invisible pollutants to audiences during walks around Manchester city centre.
Exploding Women, Saturday 23 July at Number 70 Oxford Street
Comedy duo LipService explode the myth of women scientists, exploring the lives of five of Manchester’s finest female boffins: Kathleen Drew, Queen of seaweed, Dame Kathleen Ollerenshaw, Rubix cube expert, Caroline Birley, fossil hunter, Marie Stopes, palaeobotanist and Dame Margaret Beckett, metallurgist.
Dr Emily’s Weird and Wonderful Science Facts, Sunday 24 July at Number 70 Oxford Street
Broadcaster and educator, Dr Emily Grossman’s family friendly hour-long show at 3.30pm is jam-packed with fun, educational and surprising facts, along with their explanations, adults, families and children alike are guaranteed to leave amused and amazed.
Reflecting Nature, Saturday 23 – Sunday 24 July at the Royal Exchange Theatre
Reflecting Nature is an exhibition that brings together art and science to explore how we respond to nature and artificial stimuli. Created collaboratively by award-winning multimedia artist Mark Ware and leading psychologist Dr Nichola Street, visitors can also take part in a scientific experiment led by the University of Staffordshire.
