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Science in the Square

Science in the Square is fun for the whole family

Weird science served up in Falmouth

A jellyfish that looks like a fried egg and a crab that can live on land for 40 years with almost no water are among the weird and wonderful subjects for this year’s Science in the Square.

The annual family-friendly event, part of Falmouth Week, features fun talks by top scientists from the University of Exeter, as well as hands-on activities for people of all ages.

This year’s interactive fun includes the Bone Zone, where people can find out about skulls and skeletons, and the Mini Beast Zone, where the tiny creatures of a garden pond can be viewed through a microscope.

Science in the Square is free to attend and will take place in Falmouth’s Events Square from noon-4pm on Friday 17 August.

“This fantastic event gives scientists from our Penryn Campus the ideal opportunity to share their knowledge, passion and expertise for science with the local community,” said Professor Stuart Bearhop.

“In particular, we are determined to give children of all ages the chance to experience the wonders of science at first hand through a series of talks and interactive sessions, and really explore the world around us in a fun, friendly and hands-on environment.”

Dr Kelly Moyes, Senior Lecturer, added: “We want to show that science is for everyone. Science in the Square provides everyone with the opportunity to not only learn more about the amazing science taking place in the inspirational environments of Cornwall, but also become scientists for the day.”

Speakers will include insect expert Professor Chris Bass, who will give a talk on “The weird ways of aphids.”

Dr Vicky Hobson, a marine biologist, will also be speaking about the diverse range of jellyfish in her talk “Weird and wobbly jellyfish.”

Visitors can also learn about the creatures living on the rocky shores around Falmouth, and anyone feeling brave can hold a selection of wild animals including cockroaches.

There will also be a craft table with painting, colouring, mask making and face-painting, plus a bouncy castle.

More information is available on the Science in the Square website and on Facebook and Twitter.

Date: 13 August 2018