If the last time you checked out a science exhibition was on a grade-six-school school excursion, then we have news for you! Powerhouse is making museums adult-approved – through the 10 year celebration of the Sydney Science Festival.
This year’s event, which will coincide with National Science Week, will call the Harbour City home from August 10-17. And, invite attendees to explores the theme of Skies. Whether that means reflecting on the iconic Earthrise photograph first captured by astronaut William Anders on his Apollo 8 Space Mission in 1968. Or, encouraging them them radically rethink our understanding of the atmosphere, and each other.
Featuring a series of free and ticketed events, the Sydney Science Festival will deliver an opportunity to turn one’s thoughts skyward. And, will host talks by international guests, workshops and interactive programs throughout the week across Sydney. Including at Powerhouse Castle Hill, Sydney Observatory, Parramatta Town Hall, Parramatta Square and the University of Technology Sydney.
Renowned festival speakers will include pioneering spaceship designer and space entrepreneur Dr. Susmita Mohanty. Who will be joined by Columbia University’s Physics and Astronomy Professor Janna Levin to discuss the challenges of building sustainable habitats beyond Earth and the technologies driving space missions. Space environmentalist Associate Professor Moriba Jah and artist Trevor Paglen, who will discuss our crowded skies. And, Australia’s first female astronaut and Director of Space Technology at the Australian Space Agency, Katherine Bennell-Pegg. As they chat with artist Xin Liu about what zero gravity means for creative practice and space travel.
And, for those keen to throw things back to their primary school days, one of the festival’s highlights will be Sydney Science Festival Family Day at Parramatta Square on Saturday 17 August. It promises an action-packed day of hands-on experiments, demonstrations, coding and Minecraft workshops. With high-school students from Greater Sydney invited to participate in special programming. Alongside Bennell-Pegg, Jah, and remote sensing scientist Dr. Maya Nasr as part of the Lang Walker Family Academy program.
According to NSW Minister for Arts and Tourism John Graham, “The Sydney Science Festival plays a pivotal role in showcasing creativity and innovation in NSW. By bringing together leading minds in science and the arts, the festival inspires curiosity, fosters new discoveries. And, celebrates our state’s commitment to scientific advancement.”
Similarly, Powerhouse Chief Executive Lisa Havilah added, “The Powerhouse holds Australia’s most significant collections of science, technology, and design. The Festival represents our dedication to connecting industry and community. And profiling the extraordinary work and achievements of our science leaders.”
The Full Program of Sydney Science Festival 2024 will run from 10-17 August
