This November, Explorium, Ireland’s National Sport and Science Centre, turned Science Week into a month-long celebration of all things regeneration - the theme of Science Week 2024. From nature’s miraculous ability to heal and adapt to the cutting-edge science of space exploration and human health, the packed schedule brought science to life for hundreds of visitors.
Whether you’re passionate about ecosystems, intrigued by the search for alien life, or inspired by the resilience of the human body, Science Month at Explorium offered something for everyone.
Regeneration in the Wild: Reptiles and Their Amazing Regrowth
Did you know that some animals can regrow entire limbs, tails, and even parts of their hearts? During Science Week, Dr. John Dunbar, a researcher and reptile expert, shared his extensive knowledge of exotic creatures and their extraordinary regenerative powers. From axolotls regrowing limbs to lizards losing their tails, his captivating talk showcased nature’s uncanny ability to renew itself.
Visitors also got hands-on with Dr. Dunbar and Fionn Huggard, crocodile expert, in interactive sessions. Their presentations delighted children and adults alike, offering a chance to meet some of nature’s greatest regenerators.
If you missed the excitement, check out Dr. Dunbar’s appearances on RTÉ News2day (https://www.youtube.com/clip) or the Blindboy Podcast, where he discusses venomous creatures and their fascinating adaptations.!
Reptile regeneration talk during Science Week.
Crocodile expert giving talk to public during Science Week
Axolotl talk during Science Week
Crocodile talk during Science Week
Reptile regeneration discussions in Explorium's auditorium.
Reptile awareness with Midlands Zoo at Explorium
Crocodile expert talk- Explorium auditorium
Regenerating Ireland’s Landscapes: Rewilding and Biodiversity
Explorium partnered with UCD Research to host a series of talks on rewilding, renewable energy, and biodiversity. Experts like Dr. Grace Nolan and Jane Faull, a Ph.D. researcher, highlighted efforts to restore Ireland’s ecosystems. From Mattie Purinton’s research on large bird populations to Juan Quintero and Prof. Anna Moulter’s innovative use of technology to monitor pollution, these talks offered insights into the critical work being done to understand global ecosystems and heal Ireland’s landscapes.
A particular highlight was Dr. Corrado Grappiolo’s discussion on how AI is being used to protect peatlands, one of Ireland’s most valuable resources for carbon storage and biodiversity. Conservation enthusiasts left inspired, armed with practical steps to support rewilding efforts in their own communities.
The collaboration extended to BiOrbic, Ireland’s leading bioeconomy research centre. Amanda Mathieson, Head of Public Engagement, Education and Communications demonstrated how sustainable practices can reshape industries by showing visitors how to create eco-friendly plastics.
Biodiversity in Ireland talk delivered by UCD researcher, Grace Nolan
Dr Grace Nolan, UCD biodiversity researcher with Dr Ailiís O'Carroll
Dr Mattie Purinton giving table talk on her bird research
Prof. Anna Molter discussing temperature change with the public
Prof. Anna Molter and Juan Quintero sustainability table talks
Regenerating Across the Universe: Life Beyond Earth
What role does regeneration play in space? Prof. Oisín Creaner explored the science of finding life on other planets and the challenges posed by space waste. From discarded satellites to the regenerative cycles of supernovae, his talk inspired visitors to think about the cosmos in a new way.
Prof.Creaner also stressed the importance of responsible space exploration, ensuring that humanity’s quest for discovery doesn’t endanger the very worlds we’re trying to understand.
Prof Oisin Creaner talk on life in space
Prof Oisin Creaner talk on exploring our universe
Engineering and Flight: The Science of Soaring
Visitors were thrilled by talks on the science of flying and renewable energy. Dr. Paul Cuffe, Associate Professor at UCD’s Energy Institute explained the intricacies of electricity generation, while glider pilot Damien Glyder demonstrated the principles of flight, showing how soaring is possible without engines.
Leinster gliding school flying talk
Leinster gliding school flying talk engagement
Flying talk in Explorium
Talk from Leinster Gliding School
Leinster Gliding School speaker, Damien Molloy
Flight talk demonstration
Regenerating Our Bodies: From Health to Performance
Science Week wouldn’t be complete without a focus on human health. Visitors enjoyed engaging discussions with experts like Anna Mulligan, Ph.D. researcher based in the NIBRT Characterisation and Comparability Laboratory near the UCD Belfield campus who spoke to students on proteins and protein reactions in drug development with her engaging hands-on talk.
Karin Vancikova, Ph.D. researcher on the science of muscles and joints, and
Dr. Melissa Kinch on rare diseases and their impact on the body’s ability to heal.
Anna Mulligan Biochemistry table talk
Anna Mulligan Biochemistry table talk
Anna Mulligan Biochemistry table talk in our Biology Section.
Hands-On Science Exhibits
Throughout the month, visitors explored Explorium’s signature interactive exhibits, including:
Tesla Lightning Show: Learn about electricity through electrifying demonstrations.
F1 Car and G-Force Bike: Experience the physics of speed and motion.
Sports Science: Test your strength, agility, and speed using cutting-edge technology.
Space Exploration: Drive a rover across a Mars landscape and track Ireland’s satellite, EIRSAT-1.
Cool It Exhibit: Understand climate change and discover actionable ways to reduce your carbon footprint.
Hands on exhibits at Explorium, Irelands National Sport and Science Centre
An Unforgettable Month
Whether you’re a nature lover, space enthusiast, or sports fan, Science Month at Explorium was an unforgettable experience. With hands-on activities, fascinating talks, and live demonstrations, visitors were inspired to think differently about the world around them.
Don’t miss out on future events at Explorium—where science meets adventure! Keep an eye on our website for upcoming talks, workshops, and activities.
Missed Space Week? Don't worry! Explorium has a month of Science-themed events this November—Get in touch at info@explorium.ie.
Stay tuned for more exciting science events at Explorium, where science and wonder meet!
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