2018 Wisconsin Science Festival Oct. 11-14

More than 60 communities across Wisconsin are hosting activities during the 2018 Wisconsin Science Festival (WSF), held Oct. 11 – 14, making the 2018 festival the most expansive one yet.

Now in its eighth year, the WSF continues to engage communities in the enterprise of science and discovery, and aims to communicate the power of knowledge and creativity, promote innovation and cultivate the next generation of global citizens.

“The festival isn’t just activities in a science center, it’s out and about in the community,” said Laura Heisler, director of the festival and programming for the Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation and the Morgridge Institute for Research. “We’re adding a little science to places people are already visiting for fun and engagement, hoping to spark curiosity.”

Highlighted events in Door County include “Universe in the Park” at both Newport and Peninsula State Parks. “Universe in the Park” is a popular outreach program of the UW-Madison astronomy department. The program begins with a 20-30 minute talk and slide presentation covering a broad view of astronomy and recent astronomical news. Following the presentation, a telescope is set up to view whatever astronomical objects are available. A question and answer period follows around the telescope.

“Universe in the Park” is held at Newport State Park on Oct. 12 and at Peninsula State Park on Oct. 13, both programs are from 6:45-10 pm.