Alfred University’s annual Night of Science Arts was founded to give families of all ages an up-close experience of science and arts at the university, showcasing Alfred’s unique heritage of arts, engineering and science.
The tradition, offered at no charge, continues Thursday, Oct. 22, from 5 to 8 pm, with Harder Hall and the McMahon Engineering Building hosting more than 50 live demonstrations illustrating phenomena an Alfred student would encounter in the study of physics and chemistry, mechanical, glass and ceramic engineering, and the musical arts.
“It’s a really exciting and fun night,” say organizer Rebecca Welch, assistant professor of Glass Science Engineering, Inamori School of Engineering, New York State College of Ceramics. “Any child who’s curious about science and the arts, who finds art and science fun, will enjoy this event.
Welch noted demonstrations will include exploding thermite reactions, flaming gummy bears, and liquid nitrogen toothpaste. In addition, the Stull Observatory will be open for tours, so visitors may get a chance to view the solar system and beyond through one of the university’s telescopes.
The demonstrations are interactive, as well, with visitors welcome to try their hand at creating sugar glass and fiber, as well as tasting concoctions of cotton candy and liquid nitrogen ice cream.
A buffet dinner also will be served at Ade Dining Hall at a discounted family rate.
All faculty, staff, and student parking lots will be open to the public for the event. The university will have volunteers directing traffic and assisting with parking. Students will also be directing families to the demonstration locations and the dining hall.
Add to those conveniences the thrill of flaming gummy bears, and the third Night of Science and Art promises to be a night of high energy.
