On 30 October 2011 SRON Netherlands Institute for Space Research will open its doors to the public as part of the October Knowledge Month series of events. At the Groningen location, visitors will have the opportunity to learn about the latest developments in space research by means of presentations, demonstrations, lectures and films. A special program has been put together for children. Other venues at Zernike (Kernfysisch Versneller Instituut KVI, natuur- en scheikundegebouw (Nijenborgh 4) and Bernoulliborg) will be open too this Sunday.

How do you develop a space instrument to detect atoms in molecules in the furthest corners of the universe? And how do you make sure that this sensitive equipment survives the violent conditions of a rocket launch? Why are astronomers not just interested in mapping visible light but also other radiation from the universe? The engineers, astronomers and earth scientists from SRON will answer all of your questions, including these. For example, during the open day they will tell you about their work on HIFI, observation instrument that function under the harsh and inhospitable conditions of space. HIFI is searching for water in gas clouds in space to discover more about the birth of stars and planets.

Program
The guided tours will take you to presentations by space researchers who shall tell you about their work. You can also visit the dust-free cleanrooms where SRON’s space instruments are assembled and tested or make a water raket launch. Additionally, films will be shown throughout the afternoon: about HIFI, about the 50-year history of space missions. Children can make their own construction models or do their own space experiments.

Links
Program in Dutch
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xOls8QV2tVg
Flyer open day (Dutch – pdf)

Venue
SRON Netherlands Institute for Space Research, Landleven 12 (Zernikegebouw), Groningen, +31 50 363 4074.
Time: 12.00-17.00 hours.
For further information and the program please contact: w.m.laauwen@sron.nl.