On Friday, September 29, from 17.00 until 21.00, the Institute of Solid State Physics at the University of Latvia opened its doors to science enthusiasts and inquisitive minds during the much-anticipated Night of Scientists. This captivating event provided a unique opportunity for the public to explore the institute’s groundbreaking work and diverse fields of expertise.
With over 700 attendees spanning various age groups, the Night of Scientists at LU CFI proved to be a resounding success. However, it was the enthusiastic participation of students from educational institutions such as Riga Technical College, Carnikava Primary School, and Ogre State Gymnasium, among others, that garnered the most attention.
The event featured a live fire show in the courtyard of LU CFI, captivating the audience with its mesmerizing displays. Luminescence experiments and the chance to model crystal lattices were met with keen interest, while the scientific twist on beverages and cornflakes with dry ice added an extra layer of delight for all.
Visitors had the opportunity to delve into the realm of microfluidics, explore the principles of battery operation, and unravel the intricacies of visual perception. The event also provided insights into the various projects undertaken by the institute, showcasing the ongoing advancements in the field of solid-state physics such as one provided by the Smart Windows for Zero Emission Buildings.
The SWEB project team led by Dr.Smagul Karazhanov and ISSP Thin Film Laboratory led by Dr. Juris Purans took an active role in the event, providing introduction to thin film technologies and showcasing photochromic glass at our project dedicated stand. Besides scientific mission, TFL leading researcher Dr.Edgars Butanovs promoted STEM sciences to schoolers and aimed to inspire young girls to explore physics as a potential career choice, highlighting the importance of gender diversity in the field.
With approximately 60 LU CFI employees contributing to the organization and activities of the event, the Night of Scientists underscored the commitment of the institute to fostering scientific curiosity and engagement within the community.
