Outreach events

Cool Chemistry

  • Girls explore the wonders of chemistry with women in the Chemistry Chapter of Women in Science and Engineering; features interactive workshops, chemistry "tricks," and new skills
  • Grades 7-8
  • Organizer: Women in Science and Engineering and Department of Chemistry
  • Visit the Cool Chemistry website.

Energy and U shows

  • These fun and interactive shows use explosions, flames, flying pop bottles, music, and dancing to help youth learn the first law of thermodynamics, the scale of world energy use, and the significant energy challenges that we face.
  • Grades 3-6
  • Organizer: Department of Chemistry and Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science
  • Visit the Energy and U website.

Physics Force shows

  • Group of wild and crazy physicists who use highly visual and entertaining stunts to teach the elements of their science; annual Physics Circus shows in the winter, performances at the State Fair and many other venues
  • Grades K-12
  • Organizer: School of Physics and Astronomy
  • Visit the Physics Force website.

Public lectures—College of Science and Engineering

  • Free public lectures on scientific discoveries and technical developments with important implications for our society
  • Grades 9-12
  • Sponsor: College of Science and Engineering Alumni Society
  • Visit the CSE Public Lecture webpage.

Public telescope viewings

  • Observe some of the same celestial objects that have inspired sky-gazers throughout history! The presentation is followed by outdoor observing (weather-permitting; telescopes may or may not be open). No pre-registration required. Viewings happen the first and third Fridays of each month during the academic year, from 8-9:30 p.m., at the Bell Museum.
  • Grades K-12
  • Organizer: Minnesota Institute of Astrophysics
  • Visit the Minnesota Institute of Astrophysics website.

Robot show

  • Fun, public show in December of each year featuring robots built by more than 200 engineering students
  • Grades K-12
  • Organizer: Department of Mechanical Engineering
  • Visit the Robot show website.

Universe in the Park

  • View the celestial sky at area state and local parks in the summer. The presentation is followed by an opportunity to view (weather-permitting) the sky through an 8-inch reflecting telescope. Events are free to the public (though a vehicle permit may be required to enter the park). Events are scheduled Fridays and Saturdays (rain or shine), usually beginning in June and ending mid-August, from 8:30-10 or 11 p.m.
  • Grades K-12
  • Organizer: Minnesota Institute of Astrophysics
  • Visit the Universe in the Park website.