All the fun of the Astro Fair

There was much science to see and do at the Norman Lockyer Observatory in Sidmouth on Saturday, 7 August  where the IOP-SW was once again invited to run a hands-on physics stand at their annual Astronomy Fair.

Situated in an area of outstanding natural beauty on the South Coast, this event attracts several hundred visitors each year.  It provides an opportunity to visit the historic observatory, attend lectures by leading astronomers and to buy the latest astronomical equipment from various trade stands.  Planetarium presentations and telescope dome tours also take place throughout the day.

In addition to all that, young and old were entertained by some fun physics experiments, demonstrated by members of the Institute of Physics.  Some were noisy, such as Booming Bins & Clucking Cups; some were intruiging, like our strange-sounding Coathangers; and the Waterproof Hanky even threatened to get you a bit wet…

Visitors could also make a Loop-the-Loop flyer, design a Solar System bracelet and launch their very own Rocket!

In the sunshine much fun was had by all – volunteers and visitors alike - and it will all be happening again in 2011!

See the Norman Lockyer Observatory’s website for more info about their activities: www.normanlockyer.org

For more fun physics experiments see Marvin & Milo on physics.org: www.physics.org/marvinandmilo