The European Researchers’ Night 2024 returns with a program full of engaging and innovative activities, organized by CNR-INO (National Institute of Optics). On September 27th, both Pisa and Naples will host an evening dedicated to science and discovery, with events designed for all ages and levels of knowledge.

Events in Pisa

One of the most anticipated events in Pisa is the mini-TED talk by young researcher Costanza Panaino titled “Radio-super-powers: how much science is hidden behind radiotherapy?”. During her presentation, Panaino will illustrate how recent technological innovations and research in radiotherapy are revolutionizing cancer treatments, significantly improving patients’ prognosis.

Visitors will also have the chance to tour the “Intense Laser Irradiation Laboratory (ILIL)“, where advanced research on radiation-matter interaction at extremely high intensities is conducted. Participants will explore the superLASER, a device that generates ultra-short and ultra-intense pulses, with applications ranging from inertial fusion to particle acceleration. The visit, highly recommended by online reservation, promises a fascinating insight into how advanced physics impacts everyday life.

The event will also feature an interactive optics exhibition, aimed at both children and adults, to explore common and less common optical phenomena. The exhibition will be set up in part at the desks and in part at the ILIL lab, offering a practical and engaging approach to the science of light.

Another must-see activity is the “Quantum Escape Room“, designed by students participating in the CNR-INO’s PCTO program. Participants will have to combine their knowledge to solve puzzles inspired by the paradoxes of quantum mechanics and escape the room, returning to the “classical” world we know.

Finally, starting at 7:30 PM, weather permitting, a station will be set up for astronomical observation with a 12” Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope. Astronomy enthusiasts will be able to admire planets and stars, with special attention given to Saturn. Reservations are recommended for this activity as well.

Events in Naples

Naples will host “The Quantum Challenge“, an event taking place in Piazza Dante from 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM. It is a team challenge where participants solve puzzles and games based on applications of optics, sensing, and communications. But beware: quantum mechanics is lurking! Thanks to the phenomenon of entanglement, the results may surprise you and change the fate of the winners.

The event is open to the general public, with a special focus on adults and high school students. A team of experts, including Alessandra Rocco, Valentina Di Sarno, Simona Mosca, Pietro Malara, Maria Parisi, Roberto Aiello, and Verónica Vicuña Hernández, will guide participants through a fun and scientifically rich evening.

Don’t miss out on this extraordinary night of science, where innovation, knowledge, and entertainment come together to create a unique experience!

For more details and reservations, visit the official links:
https://bright-night.it/enti-di-ricerca/cnr/
https://www.nottedeiricercatori-streets.it/wp/events/the-quantum-challenge/