The Researchers' Night at BUT attracted thousands of visitors and showcased the richness of science

Fascination and curious questions filled the faculties and departments of the Brno University of Technology last Friday. This year’s Night of Scientists, with the theme of wealth, attracted a total of 7,199 visitors to the university. The greatest success was recorded by the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and the Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Communication Technologies.

The Researchers' Night at BUT attracted over seven thousand visitors. | Author: FEEC

Science enthusiasts discovered the many different forms of wealth thanks to nearly 150 activities prepared for them by BUT experts. All faculties and university departments, including the Alfons Counseling Center, took part in this year’s 20th edition of Night of Scientists. Visitors appreciated not only the presentation of cutting-edge technologies, but also the atmosphere that prevailed at the Brno university. “It was worth it!” echoed throughout the faculties during the evening. In addition to the program, people also praised the involved popularizers and their enthusiasm for science.

The theme of wealth intersects many different spheres – our foundry workers took it literally. “If you’d like, you can cast and mint a coin here,” one organizer invited a little girl who was curiously observing the entire process.

A robot that estimated the age, gender, and mood of participants based on a photo, or virtual reality that transported visitors into a student model of a nuclear power plant, also drew great interest. All children were clearly thrilled by the fire truck tour, drone flying, driving a space rover model, or fun physics experiments. “Pull harder!” was heard at the dynamometer.

Researchers' Night at FEEC. | Author: FEEC

Adults, on the other hand, were captivated by computer vision technologies capable of detecting defects in industrial systems. “We’re teaching the computer to interpret visual information so it can recognize what we show it and detect errors. For example, paper manufacturing companies use this,” explained an expert in automation and measurement technologies.

Researchers' Night at FIT. | Author: Václav Koníček

Our chemists, who have been part of Night of Scientists since the very first year, prepared a unique thematic program including a chemistry show. Through engaging experiments, visitors could discover where silver is hidden, how to recognize genuine banknotes, or what real blood is – one of the most important substances for human health. “I want to try it too!” children cheered at the experiments they could actively participate in.

Researchers' Night at FCH. | Author: FCH

Visitors also had lots of fun with the sports activities organized by BUT. “Ready, set, go!” was heard during reaction time, concentration, and balance tests. An impressive experience was also offered by the combination of sign language and fencing – a silent theater where hands and their graceful movements played the main role.

Researchers' Night at CESA and Alfons. | Author: CESA

Wealth, however, does not lie only in modern technologies but also in sustainability, art, or architecture. This was shown by engaging tours, including a model of a polar station, activities linked to the “Vector of Poverty” project, or planting flowers that highlighted the benefits of green roofs. “We had been growing the flowers at the faculty for a long time so children could plant them,” explained one of the organizers.

Researchers' Night at FFA. | Author: Václav Koníček

The labyrinth of scientific discoveries, a mysterious escape room, a fire show, or popular science lectures also proved successful. “I really appreciate the program, which considers both children and adults who are interested in the topic,” visitors evaluated. The greatest reward for the organizers, however, are the reactions of young visitors and potential students: “It was amazing, and I think I want to study at BUT!”