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Young World
World of science on wheels
TOMIN PAUL
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The Science Express takes one on a journey of discovery.
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Science on the move: In the Science Express
Did you know there are biochips that can actually be placed in your body to monitor vital functions? Or that the binary code is not the only code that can make computers work? Welcome to the world of quantum computers where electrons, with their alternate spins, replace the binary digits to bring about faster computing. And to the mesmerising world of science with all its mysteries and wonders. This thirteen coach air-conditioned “science caravan” a.k.a. Scien
ce Express has already attracted over a million visitors and there are still 23 destinations to go. The response at Secunderabad was so overwhelming that the organisers had to extend the timings to accommodate the huge crowds.
New look
A joint initiative of Max Planck Society, the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (Germany) and the Department of Science and Technology (DST), this exhibition is not like any other science exhibition you’ve seen. No stale facts that you already know or concepts that you’ve been through in your classrooms. Instead you get lots of new information that’ll help you go beyond just a bird’s eye view of new technologies. It also gives you a rare chance to look at the latest German science and technology.
“Each coach is dedicated to a particular science discipline. We’re trying to give people, especially children, a clearer picture of what exactly different fields like nano technology actually deal with. This is also a platform for those interested in a research career to understand their options better,” says Rachi, one of the coordinators from the Vikram Sarabhai Community Science Centre, Ahmedabad. From the origin of the cosmos to the world inside the atom, you are taken through a multimedia tour of the science world.
On display are miniature models of the Chandrayaan, Herschel telescope, lots of slides and images taken with precision of nano dimensions. “You can’t ask for a better introduction to the world of research. The exhibition is simply fantastic,” says Vandana a Physics teacher. Children seem to take a special liking for Planck’s chaotic pendulum and the BASF Kids’ lab where they get to do interesting experiments in chemistry like super soaker, colour separator, liquid concrete and colour lock.
The Science Express in its country-wide tour that began in Delhi chugs on. As the express arrives in other stations, one thing is certain, it’s going to take young minds on a fascinating journey of discovery. And for the children, an opportunity to get the first glimpse of the latest advancements in the world of science and technology.
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