At the Centre for Microscopy & Microanalysis (CMM), we know that science isn't just something we study, it's something we experience, live, and share on a day to day basis. Earlier this week, our labs buzzed with excitement as we welcomed a group of young future scientists (and their equally curious parents!) for a hands-on outreach event that we hoped would spark a love of science in the next generation.
The kids got to watch crystals grow right before their eyes and use real scientific equipment like the Hitachi TM4000 desktop SEM. Our researchers and staff guided them through the fascinating world of materials, atoms, and elements, showing them how scientists use tools like XRF spectroscopy and microscopy to understand the invisible structures that shape our everyday lives.
The feedback spoke for itself:
"My daughter talked non-stop about everything she saw and did. She was reading the crystals book before bed!"
"I don't think they'll ever forget this day, thank you!"
What made us particularly proud was seeing even our own CMM families' children - Na'ama's, Olexandra's, and Kasun's - among the most excited attendees. They spent the evening recounting their discoveries and asking endless questions about how microscopes work. Clear proof that we'd succeeded in lighting that spark of scientific curiosity.
A heartfelt thank you goes out to everyone who contributed their time, knowledge, and energy to make this happen. From explaining how the instruments work to making science feel welcoming and fun, you all played a part in creating something special. Matt deserves a particular shout-out; his enthusiastic demo of the Hitachi TM4000 might just have landed it on a school's wish list!
This event was more than just a lab tour. It was a glimpse into the future of science through the eyes of children who may one day be leading it.
This initiative reflects CMM's ongoing commitment to community engagement and nurturing scientific curiosity from an early age.
By opening our doors to the next generation, we're helping build a future shaped by curiosity, questions, and discovery.
Stay tuned, more exciting outreach and inspire events are coming soon from CMM.
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