Dazzling Discoveries
July 19, 2026
Dazzling Discoveries | July 19
Scheduled Activities
The Quantum World Around Us: A User-Friendly Introduction
Quantum computing can seem mysterious, but the basic ideas are more approachable than you might think. This talk introduces qubits, explains how they're different from the classically used bits in today's computers, and highlights the materials research that could make fascinating quantum technologies a reality.
Presented by Andi Barbour, Beamline Scientist.
11 a.m.•1:30 p.m. (30 minutes)
Powering Progress: Early Histories at the Brookhaven National Laboratory site
This talk is about the history of the Brookhaven Lab site and how it was used before its present-day role as an active scientific research center with ongoing national and global impact. This talk is recommended for those age 8 and older.
Presented by Alison McGovern, Cultural Resources Manager.
Noon•2:30 p.m. (45 minutes)
All-Day Activities
National Synchrotron Light Source II
Tour the experimental floor at NSLS-II, which produces light 10 billion times brighter than the sun for cutting-edge research. Participate in hands-on science fun at interactive stations. Recommended for ages 10 and up. Bus transportation is provided. Brief orientation in Berkner Hall, Room B required.
Limited availability. See Reception Desk for bus tickets. Arrive by 2:15 p.m. for last bus to the facility.
Environmental Science & Technology Lab
Visit a lab where scientists are studying clouds and other atmospheric processes. See the cloud chamber, a powerful platform for testing scientific theories, improving atmospheric models, and advancing our understanding of cloud microphysics. Recommended for ages 10 and up.
Limited availability. See Reception Desk for bus tickets.
Hands-On Demonstrations
Demonstrations and interactive explanations about qubits, engineering, sensors, detectors, electronics, and more from the Instrumentation and Environmental Science & Technology departments.
National Synchrotron Light Source II
Hands-on Science Activities
Show to be Announced
June 28
Family Fun
Featuring
The Science Learning Center, Brookhaven Lab’s Firehouse, and the Environmental Protection Division
July 19
Dazzling Discoveries
Featuring
The National Synchrotron Light Source II, the Environmental Science & Technologies Department, and Instrumentation Division
August 2
Fascinating Physics
Featuring
The future Electron-Ion Collider, the Nuclear & Particle Physics Directorate, and the Tandem Van de Graaff Facility
Each day, you're invited to historical Lab talks and curated displays as we commemorate the 250th anniversary of American independence.
Free, no reservations needed•Gates open 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.•Wheelchair accessible
Guests 18 and older must bring REAL ID-compliant identification
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.
