Join the Largest Scientific Event in the Czech Republic!
The ninth edition of the Science Fair, hosted by the Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, showcases some of the most fascinating aspects that Czech science has to offer. This event is recognized as the largest popular science gathering in the country, featuring science across various disciplines and providing visitors with exciting insights from natural sciences, engineering, humanities, and social sciences. For three days, the exhibition area in Prague Letňany will be alive with over 100 displays from the Academy of Sciences, universities, and innovative companies, welcoming both adults and children. Entry to the entire event is free of charge, making it accessible to everyone. The fair operates from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Whether your interests lie in music, artificial intelligence, chemistry, space, or the world of plants and animals, you’re sure to discover something engaging and possibly even get hands-on experience at the Science Fair.
Experiments or Space Town
Who wouldn’t want to step into the shoes of a scientist for a day, dive into experiments, explore archives, or discover the captivating realm of plants and forensics? This is all possible during the three-day event at PVA Expo Prague. The ninth edition of this vital scientific event—the Science Fair—encompasses a wide array of fields from humanities and sciences to engineering, ensuring unique experiences for every science lover, whether young or old. Spanning an area of 8,200 m², various departments will present their research from the Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic and other institutions, universities, and science centers across the country. One highlight is Space Town, featuring an inflatable planetarium where attendees can try out virtual reality to feel what it’s like on the moon, or learn about the intense forces astronauts face. Within this section, scientists will also showcase the Bolidozor Project, dedicated to tracking meteors using the reflection of radio signals.
Earthquakes, Masaryk on the Move, and a Crime Lab
The Institute of Geophysics from the CAS is excited to let visitors create their very own earthquakes. They can build their own structure on a seismic vibration table and see if it can handle the shaking caused by seismic waves. Experts from the Biology Centre will demonstrate how even though plants don’t actually walk, jump, or fly, their lives are filled with unique movements and activities. Additionally, T. G. Masaryk, who traveled extensively through Europe, Asia, and the USA, will be highlighted through exhibits from the Masaryk Institute and the Archives of the CAS, exploring his journeys and experiences.
Visitors will have the chance to peek into the forensic laboratory of the Criminalistics Institute of the Police of the Czech Republic to learn how science plays a crucial role in solving crimes. There will be chemical demonstrations, borate lasers, techniques for detecting counterfeit artworks, and numerous other intriguing exhibits.
Science Show, Artificial Intelligence, and Mushroom Science
Each year, the multimedia Kepler Hall hosts several engaging events including the science show, lectures, and discussions, but prior registration is required to participate. During the lectures, audiences may explore questions about whether the pen truly is mightier than the sword, dive into the legend of Dracula, or discover how various physical phenomena are often misrepresented in films. Attendees can engage in discussions with experts on topics such as artificial intelligence, the secrets of the universe, and significant events from World War II, which marked its 80th anniversary this year.
This year, the festival also introduces a smaller stage called Science Point, offering shorter and entertaining lectures. On Thursday, the focus will be on Astronomy, discussing the first ZERO-G flight in the Czech Republic or delving into the mysteries of black holes as cosmic laboratories. Friday will present stories about rocks that face the test of time and a segment titled Science on Mushrooms. Saturday’s discussions will revolve around artificial intelligence, including topics like why it’s harder for robots to open doors than to perform somersaults and the ethical implications surrounding military robots.
We’re Making Science Fun!
The Science Fair is not only hosted by Institutes of the CAS, covering a wide range of natural sciences, engineering, humanities, and social sciences, but also involves universities, organizations, and companies. Participating institutions such as Charles University, VŠCHT, and the University of Ostrava will showcase topics like nanostructures or the effects of blue light. Additionally, Tomas Bata University from Zlín will present their insights into robotic systems and virtual reality. This year, the Slovak Academy of Sciences joins the event, alongside the Pavol Jozef Šafárik University in Košice.
The fair provides an excellent opportunity for attendees to directly converse with experts. Each stand will not only provide new information but also allow visitors to ask scientists directly about their interests and curiosity. At the Science Fair, everyone can experience the wonders of science firsthand, exploring how it impacts our lives, its benefits, and how even those without a scientific background can contribute to it.
