Brookhaven Lab Open to the Public on Summer Sundays
Where can you go on a summer Sunday on Long Island to see exciting science shows, enjoy tours of world-class science facilities, and engage in hands-on educational activities for the whole family — all for free? Visit the U.S. Department of Energy’s Brookhaven National Laboratory on Summer Sundays, from July 17th to August 14th, 2011, to enjoy a fun-filled Sunday while learning about dynamic scientific developments at the Lab.
No reservations are needed, but visitors age 16 and over must bring a photo ID. Visitors may arrive any time between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. A different tour and new science show will be featured each week. Arrive early to avoid crowds; all activities are on a first-come, first-served basis. The last facility visit takes place at 3 p.m. each week, and science shows will he held at noon, 1:30 p.m., and 3 p.m. each Sunday in Berkner Hall. A cafeteria and gift shop, also located in Berkner Hall, will be open until 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. respectively.
The full Summer Sundays schedule follows:
July 17 Exploring the Ultra Small & Solving the Energy Challenge
Visit the Center for Functional Nanomaterials, where Brookhaven researchers probe structures as tiny as a billionth of a meter. Learn about scientists’ latest discoveries in innovative energy technologies. Be amazed by “The Magic of Energy” show. This science facility tour is appropriate for children age 10 and over.
July 24 Brilliant Light, Dazzling Discoveries
Tour the National Synchrotron Light Source (NSLS) and the next-generation NSLS-II, now under construction. See how scientists illuminate the inner workings of proteins, polymers, computer chips, and more. Take the synchrotron science quiz for a chance to win a special tour. Be enthralled by the “Science Laser Light Spectacular” show.
July 31 More to Explore Day
A fabulous day of hands-on family fun! Use the basic scientific method to explore magnets, mirrors, and more. Hop aboard a fire truck and learn all about the Laboratory’s protective services. Enjoy the “Phenomenal Physics with Mr. Fish” show.
August 7 Storm Hunters
Learn how meteorologists at the National Weather Service forecast the weather and track storms across the New York metropolitan area. Watch the launching of a weather balloon at 3:30 pm. See the “Weather” show.
August 14 Atom-Smashing Fun
Visit the Relativistic Heavy Ion Collider, a world-class particle accelerator where physicists recreate the conditions in the universe as they believe it existed microseconds after the Big Bang! Stump a physicist, and meet “Einstein Alive.” This science facility tour is appropriate for children age 10 and over.
