Fusion energy at Royal Society Summer Science Exhibition
An interactive fusion energy display will inspire visitors at an annual showcase of the UK’s most exciting new developments in scientific research.
Fusion energy machine, JET, at UKAEA
An interactive fusion energy display is set to inspire visitors at this year’s Royal Society Summer Science Exhibition 2022 – the annual showcase of the UK’s most exciting new developments in scientific research.
The free-of-charge event at the Royal Society’s central London HQ, which runs from July 6 to 10, brings together some of the UK’s world-leading researchers for five days of cutting-edge science – offering unique experiences, and a weekend programme of activities and workshops for all ages.
A team from the UK Atomic Energy Authority will be at the event to answer three major questions: What is fusion; why is it so challenging; and what is the solution to providing low carbon and sustainable energy in the future?
Chris Warrick, UKAEA’s Student Placement and Outreach Manager, said: “We believe fusion – the power source of the Sun and stars – will provide low carbon and abundant electricity for future generations here on Earth. We are really proud the UK is leading the world in its development.
“We are working with the greatest minds in science and technology to make fusion energy a reality, and are really excited to be at this year’s Royal Society Summer Exhibition. We hope to inform and inspire all who attend, especially the young scientists of the future, using interactive games and demonstrations to bring our fascinating technology to life. It will be a chance to really experience how we make a star on Earth.”
Returning as an in-person event for the first time since 2019, visitors to Summer Science can meet hundreds of scientists from 16 research groups selected from universities and institutions across the UK.
Cosmologist Professor Carlos Frenk, Chair of the Royal Society’s Public Engagement Committee, said: “The importance of science to society, and in our daily lives, has never been as much in evidence as in the past two years. The exhibition explores the science at the heart of some of the biggest issues of our time.
“We have carefully curated a selection of 16 brilliant, interactive exhibits on a variety of topics, from identifying and tackling disease, to designing the green energy technologies that will power our cities in the future. The exhibition offers a rare opportunity to meet and engage with the researchers who are playing a leading role in shaping our future.”
A film highlighting UKAEA’s work is also set to be one of six featured in a live streamed session, directly from the exhibition floor on Saturday, July 9.
Visit royalsociety.org for the full list of research groups confirmed for Summer Science 2022 or follow hashtag #summerscience on social media channels.