Sidmouth Science Festival returns from Friday 4th until Sunday 13th October for a fun and educational week with events ranging from hands-on activities to serious talks plus a visit, walks and a film screening: in fact there are events for all ages and abilities and most of them are free.
1) Become an engineer
Super Science Saturday on 5th October is an engaging and educational event, packed with hands-on activities that will appeal to curious minds of all ages. It is a wonderful opportunity for families and individuals to dive into science through active participation. The variety of activities ensures that there’s something for everyone, from budding chemists and engineers to those interested in art and environmental issues. Come along and learn how things work by making them yourself. These activities mostly take place at the Festival Hub, Kennaway House and in the Parish Church and focus around hands-on activities including chemistry demonstrations, light and rainbows, maths, making CD cars, tornado in a bottle, balloon hovercrafts, kites, motors, creepy crawlies and more. There is also the schools’ art exhibition on the theme of What We Throw Away which will make you think about the impact of waste on our environment and how we can reduce it.
2) Dip into Palaeontology
Another strong focus on Super Science Saturday is geology. The event is centred around geological themes, making it particularly relevant to the Jurassic Coast's rich paleontological history. With a variety of engaging talks and interactive experiences, it promises to be both educational and entertaining. Talks and presentations include reconstructing past climates using data from the longest-living animals and the recent discovery of the Pliosaur Skull in Dorset. These talks will provide fascinating insights into the Earth's history and the region's significant fossil discoveries. There will be Interactive Games and Fossil Handling which are great for both children and adults to learn more about palaeontology and Microscope Displays with close-up views of rock samples, which can reveal intricate details about their composition and formation. The event is held at All Saints’ Church and Hall, creating a dedicated space for these geological explorations.
3) What is AI and Machine Learning?
AI (Artificial Intelligence) and Machine Learning are technologies that are rapidly transforming various aspects of our lives, from the apps we use daily to advancements in medical diagnostics and ethical considerations. This session at the Parish Church on Sunday 6th is an excellent opportunity to deepen your understanding of AI and Machine Learning, discover how these technologies are shaping the world, and consider the ethical implications of their use.
4) Walks, Talks and Visits
Walks, talks and visits take place from Monday 7th to Friday 11th covering both local and national topics including Health Frontiers: Dementia, Muscle Quality, Overcoming medical disparities, Sports Science, Heat Pumps, Illusion and Delusion in Art, Moisture in Buildings, Storms in Sidmouth: 1894, 1994 and 2024, Devon’s Pioneering Technologists, Tackling plastic waste issues, plus a panel discussion on Citizen Science about how ordinary people can contribute to scientific research, with tips on getting involved in projects that might range from local environmental monitoring to global initiatives.
This year’s visit is to the Fire Service: Urban Search and rescue which will give insights into how they prepare for and respond to emergencies. Walks include a Sidmouth Geology Walk exploring its connection to the Jurassic Coast and pointing out significant geological formations and a History walk around the Norman Lockyer Observatory guided by experts in these areas.
5) Biodiversity - local and global
The Biodiversity event on 12th October combines education with real-world exploration. Attendees will gain a deeper appreciation for the complexity and importance of biodiversity, particularly in river ecosystems and plant species like lichens and ferns.
6) All things robotic
The Robot Workshop on 12th October is an immersive and interactive event that will provide participants with both theoretical knowledge and practical experience in robotics. It’s a fantastic way to dive into the world of robotics, learn new skills, and see how robots are transforming various industries.
7) Launch into Space
The Family Fun Day at the Norman Lockyer Observatory on Sunday 13th offers a mix of fun and educational activities with an astronomical theme. Have a go at Telescope Viewing to explore the stars, planets, and other celestial objects. Or go to a Planetarium Show which offers an immersive experience, teaching visitors about our galaxy, constellations, planets, and the broader universe. Learn about Norman Lockyer, a significant figure in astronomy, and his contemporaries, delving into their contributions to the field and their discoveries. Try Rocket Launching: An interactive experience where participants can build and launch model rockets, giving a fun introduction to basic physics and engineering. Become a Space Detective with engaging activities for both children and adults in a fun learning experience. Or Build the Fastest Jet Car (extra cost), a creative engineering challenge where participants can design and build a jet car, focusing on aerodynamics by streamlining its shape and adding accessories. It’s a great way to introduce principles of physics and engineering in a hands-on manner. For younger children there is Storytelling and Owls: A bit of nature mixed in with the space theme, featuring live owls and information about their species and habits
Admission Charge: Unlike some of the other events, there is an entry fee, but the wide range of activities and the chance to explore the Observatory make it a worthwhile experience for families.
For the full programme of events and venues visit www.sidmouthsciencefestival.org where you can also reserve places for some events.