February 26, 2013

UC Santa Barbara to Host ‘NanoDays’ at Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History

The smallest science gets a big reception when UC Santa Barbara presents NanoDays 2013, inviting visitors into the miniscule world of atoms, molecules, and nanoscale forces. Hosted by the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History, the science fair is set for Saturday, March 16, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Sunday, March 17, from noon to 4 p.m.

The events will be held at the museum, 2559 Puesta del Sol Road, Santa Barbara, and all festival activities are included in the price of general admission to the museum. On March 16, admission is free for children under 3; $6 for children 3-12; $7 for teens and senior citizens; and $10 for adults. There is no charge for members of the museum. On March 17, admission is free.

Participants will discover how 3-D images are made, investigate new nano products and materials, and imagine what the world might look like if we could build an elevator to space. Activities include crafting bracelets that change color in the sun; making thin films of shimmery iridescent colors; and exploring properties such as invisibility, static electricity, and gravity.

NanoDays at the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History are part of a nationwide festival of educational programs centered on nanoscale science and engineering. Led by the Nanoscale Informal Science Education Network (NISE Net), it is the largest public outreach effort of its kind.

Putting scientists and science educators together to create learning experiences for both children and adults, NanoDays celebrations combine hands-on activities with presentations of current research. It's all meant to demonstrate the special and unexpected properties found at the nanoscale, examine tools used by nanoscientists, showcase promising nano materials, and invite discussion of technology and society.

The local event is organized by the Nanofabrication Facility, and sponsored by the National Nanotechnology Infrastructure Network and the California NanoSystems Institute.

About UC Santa Barbara

The University of California, Santa Barbara is a leading research institution that also provides a comprehensive liberal arts learning experience. Our academic community of faculty, students, and staff is characterized by a culture of interdisciplinary collaboration that is responsive to the needs of our multicultural and global society. All of this takes place within a living and learning environment like no other, as we draw inspiration from the beauty and resources of our extraordinary location at the edge of the Pacific Ocean.