Delaware Museum of Natural History's Nano Day


Imagine and explore a world that's too small to see at Delaware Museum of Natural History's Nano Day

The Delaware Museum of Natural History celebrates the science of small at Nano Day on Saturday, March 26, 2011 from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Family-friendly activities illustrate the world at the nanoscale, making this new field of science accessible and fun.

Visitors can investigate super-thin materials used in solar cell technology, forces stronger than gravity, and sand that doesn't get wet -- even underwater! Other activities include using your nose as a nanodetector and measuring yourself in nanometers.

"Nano" is the scientific term for one-billionth, from the Greek working meaning "dwarf." Nanoscale refers to measurements of 1 - 100 nanometers, where many common materials exhibit unusual properties such as lower resistance to electricity or faster chemical reactions.

Nano Day at the Delaware Museum of Natural History is part of a nationwide festival of educational programs about nanoscale science and engineering supported by the Nanoscale Informal Science Education Network. This community-based event is the largest public outreach effort in nanoscale informal science education and involves science museums, research centers, and universities from Puerto Rico to Alaska.

Nano Day celebrations create unique new learning experiences for both children and adults to explore the miniscule world of atoms, molecules, and nanoscale forces. A range of exciting Nano Day programs demonstrate the special and unexpected properties found at the nanoscale, examine tools used by nanoscientists, showcase nano materials with spectacular promise, and invite discussion of technology and society.

WHAT: Nano Day, a special event exploring the science of small with hands-on activities for families.

WHERE: Delaware Museum of Natural History, 4840 Kennett Pike, Wilmington, DE 19807

DATE: Saturday, March 26, 2011

TIME: 9:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

ADMISSION: $7 for adults, $5 for children (3-17), $6 for seniors, free for children 2 and younger. Free for museum members.

MORE INFO: Visit www.delmnh.org or call (302) 658-9111.