Series brings popular science shows to the community

The university will bring its most popular on-campus science presentations to the community in several free public events this fall.

The Wisconsin Idea Explorations in Science will provide an opportunity for members of the community to learn about the world of science through a series of fun and informative demonstrations designed for the entire family.

The free programs, which are great for “kids of all ages,” will be presented Wednesdays, 7-8:30 p.m., in the auditorium of the BioPharmaceutical Technology Center Institute, 5445 East Cheryl Parkway, just off South Fish Hatchery Road in Fitchburg Center.

The programs are presented in partnership with the UW–Madison Division of Continuing Studies, Promega Corporation and the BioPharmaceutical Technology Center Institute. The presentations are:

— Science is Fun! Wednesday, Sept. 19: This science-oriented “magic” show features Bassam Shakhashiri, professor of chemistry and the newly appointed William T. Evjue Distinguished Chair for the Wisconsin Idea. Shakhashiri has presented before sold-out audiences in Madison and elsewhere and on public television for more than 30 years, which makes this one of the university’s longest running and most popular public service programs. The presentation reveals the joy of science to kids of all ages while increasing their understanding and appreciation of its promises and perils.

— Discover the Nanoworld, the World of Atoms! Wednesday, Oct. 17: In this presentation, Arthur Ellis, Meloche-Bascom Professor of chemistry, delves into the tiny world of atoms. His program, which includes a number of hands-on demonstrations, investigates the frontiers of the nanoworld by showing the tools that let us “see” and manipulate atoms. The presentation teaches about creating materials that act like trampolines, metals that remember their shape, fluids that respond to magnets and semiconductors that give off blue light. Ellis also coordinates the outreach activities of the Materials Research Science and Engineering Center on Nanostructured Materials and Interfaces.

— The Wonders of Physics, Wednesday, Nov. 14: This program showcases Clint Sprott, professor of physics and recipient of the Van Hise Outreach Award. This is a fast-paced presentation of physics demonstrations that are equally entertaining and educational. Since 1984, this program has helped clarify and generate interest in physics and science for more than 50,000 people on campus and more on public television.

These programs will continue the tradition of the Wisconsin Idea established 100 years ago by university president Charles Van Hise, who believed it was the university’s responsibility to extend its resources and make them available to every home in the state.

Wisconsin Idea Explorations in Science tickets are offered free on a first-come first-served basis. To reserve your free tickets (limit of five per family), please call (608) 262-4566 by Wednesday, Sept. 12. Seating is limited to the 290 people. Free parking is available. When offered on campus these programs always sell out, so call today to ensure your seat. Walk-in traffic will be allowed to enter the auditorium beginning at 6:50 p.m. if any seats remain.