Discovery and Innovation
September 14, 2025
Family Fun | September 14
Scheduled Activities
Show: OpenSpace
Have you ever wondered what the edge of the universe looks like? Embark on a journey beyond our solar system and the Milky Way, powered by OpenSpace data visualization software. This show is suitable for all ages.
Noon • 1:30 p.m. • 3 p.m. (1 hour)
Doors open 15 minutes before showtime. Arrive early. Seating is first come, first served.
Talk: Scientific Discovery and AI
Scientists are creating new ways to use AI to discover new materials, automate experiments, process data, and more. This talk is suitable for those ages 10 and older.
Speakers: Kevin Yager and Esther Tsai, Center for Functional Nanomaterials; Carlos Soto, Computational Science Initiative
11:30 a.m. (45 minutes)
Hamilton Seminar Room, Chemistry (Bldg. 555)
Talk: Building Tomorrow’s Semiconductor Chips
Learn about important breakthroughs in semiconductors — vital innovations that will power future computing technologies and affect our everyday lives. This talk is recommended for those ages 10 and older.
Speaker: TBD
2:30 p.m. (30 minutes)
All-Day Activities
Center for Functional Nanomaterials (CFN), Computing and Data Sciences
Explore CFN, where researchers probe atomic-scale structures for big discoveries that support energy, economic, and national security. See electron microscopes and a clean room, build a model molecule, and more. Plus, learn how researchers are using artificial intelligence (AI) and state-of-the-art tools for scientific breakthroughs.
Next, stop by the Computing and Data Science Directorate's home to see Scientific Computing and Data Facilities, which enable research at Brookhaven Lab and around the world.
This tour starts from Berkner Hall Room B. Bus transportation is provided. Arrive by 2:30 p.m. for the last bus to this facility.
Radio Telescopes and Quantum Computing: Instrumentation at Brookhaven Lab
The Instrumentation Department at Brookhaven Lab has developed advanced technology in support of science and national security for more than 70 years. Learn about two major Instrumentation efforts:
- LuSEE-Night, a radio telescope destined for the far side of the moon
- Quantum networking, which can enable revolutionary technologies for secure communications and sensing technologies
Key: Bus from Berkner Hall Walk from Berkner Hall
'Science of Magic' Show
Science Learning Center
Brookhaven Lab Firehouse
June 29
Family Fun
at the Science Learning Center
Enjoy hands-on family fun at the Science Learning Center. Explore interactive exhibits on many different areas of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM).
July 13
Dazzling Discoveries
at the National Synchrotron Light Source II
Tour the experimental floor at the National Synchrotron Light Source II (NSLS-II), which produces light 10 billion times brighter than the sun for cutting-edge research.
August 3
Fascinating Physics
at the Relativistic Heavy Ion Collider
Explore three locations within the only operating particle collider complex in the United States.
September 14
Discovery and Innovation
at the Center for Functional Nanomaterials, Computing and Data Sciences
Visit the Center for Functional Nanomaterials, where researchers probe atomic-scale structures for big discoveries. See how the Computing and Data Science Directorate enables research around the world.
Note: Photos and videos may be taken during these events and may be used by Brookhaven Lab for promotional purposes, including on social media and in other related materials. By attending, you consent to being photographed or filmed and authorize Brookhaven Lab to use these images without compensation or further approval.
- Free, no reservations needed
- Gates open 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
- All activities are first-come, first-served
- Located 1.5 miles north of LIE Exit 68
- Wheelchair accessible
- Specific activities subject to change.
- Guests 18 and older must bring REAL ID-compliant identification. Digital IDs and copies cannot be accepted.
