The Big Bang Explodes Into Life

London ExCeL event aims to inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers

This March, The Big Bang: UK Young Scientists and Engineers Fair is preparing for record numbers of people to take part in what is the UK’s biggest ever FREE celebration of science and engineering for young people.

Thousands have already registered to attend the science extravaganza at ICC London ExCeL from 10 – 12 March, and organisers are urging families and schools to register now for free tickets. The 10 and 11 March are for schools with Saturday 12 March open to the public.Aimed at unleashing passion and excitement in the next generation of scientists and engineers, the large-scale event will host 120 interactive activities, exhibitions and live shows, as well as the finals of the National Science & Engineering Competition.

Headline acts include live performances from BBC One’s Bang goes the Theory and an explosive line up of daredevil experiments from Sky TV’s Brainiac Live! TV’s favourite fictional duo Wallace and Gromit will also be bringing their ‘World of Invention’ roadshow to The Big Bang, where visitors can get creative at the clay station.

To show just how fun and inspiring science and engineering can be, other show-stopping activity zones include:

Go Global

• Discover how to weld big structures using chocolate 
• Test your robotic skills by designing and programming a LEGO® MINDSTORMS® robot to help discover solutions to real world problems 
• Join geoscientists to make your own earthquake and try your hand at fossil hunting

 The Next Factor

• Find out how the liquid crystals in your LCD TV can be used for bullet-proof vests
• Feel Good Vibrations with a workshop designed to uncover the weird science behind sound
• Meet real-life astronomers who have turned their curiosity for the universe and life beyond earth into a career

Body Talk

• Take a look at your blood up close and visit a Stem Cell Lab of the Future
• Have a go at handling real bionic implants and uncover where they fit in the body
• Step inside the BodPod and discover your body shape and why what you eat matters

Energise

• Use your pedal power to help generate electricity! Challenge your friends to see who can create the most energy
• Find out how Algae can be used to produce hydrogen, electricity or other forms of green energy

Capital Hall

• Get in the fast lane and see how McLaren are using the latest technologies to create a range of high-performance sports cars. Feel the power and take your seat inside some of its newest innovations

Professor Brian Cox, one of The Big Bang’s biggest advocates, will also be attending The Fair to judge in the finals of the National Science & Engineering Competition. Visitors on Friday 12 March will see the TV science star rewarding some of the UK’s most inspiring young talent.Paul Jackson, Chief Executive of The Big Bang 2011, said: “The line-up for this year’s event guarantees a spectacular experience for young people of all ages. As well as showing just how much fun and inspiring science and engineering can be, it is also the ideal place to find out about the exciting career options out there.”

To find out more and book your place visit http://www.thebigbangfair.co.uk/