It’s not all science at the exhibition, there’s lots of entertainment too

While competitors continue work on their projects, organisers of the BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition are preparing entertainment for next month’s event.

The countdown is continuing for almost 1,200 students from the Republic and Northern Ireland for the showcase of their work in Dublin from January 8 to 10. The 550 projects will be the main attraction for most, including the families of the teenagers whose entries were selected in October from more than 2,000 submitted.

But the main hall and other locations around the RDS will host displays to demonstrate and celebrate the fun side of science.

The Roney & Joe Science Show will feature fireballs, dry ice, and levitating superconductors from two young Irish scientists who work in the fields of astrophysics and chemistry.

Fans of Dr Who and Star Wars can see Daleks and R2D2 go head-to-head in The World of Robots. Visitors can also experience what it is like to travel on the International Space Station by taking a trip through a 3D simulation with a view of Earth from 430km.

Other interactive events to keep the crowds entertained will include W5’s Light Fantastic Show, and the return of the 7ft robot TITAN.

Some of the main proceedings will be hosted by TG4’s Roisín Ní Thomáin and broadcaster Aidan Power, with category winners and the overall top prize being announced on Friday evening, January 9.

www.btyoungscientist.com