The Institute of Plasma Physics and Laser Microfusion (IPPLM) invites you to its stand on Saturday, 10 May, during the 28th Science Picnic, organized by Polish Radio and the Copernicus Science Center. This year's edition of the event, held under the slogan "Ale Kosmos!", is an excellent opportunity to take a closer look at modern space technologies and fascinating plasma phenomena.
What will we show at our stand?
1) Plasma space thrusters – science, not fiction
In this demonstration, we will present a pulsed plasma thruster (PPT) developed at the IPPLM, designed to propel small satellites, so-called Cubesats. The device will be placed in a special vacuum chamber, and during its operation, a spectacular flash of blue-purple plasma will appear. Participants will learn how such a drive works and what applications it has on board so-called microsatellites. Other types of space plasma thrusters will also be presented.
2) Northern Lights in a jar
In the model of the Solar System – Planeterrella – we will show phenomena occurring in space, such as the aurora borealis, the Van Allen belts and the solar corona. Two spheres under a glass dome – one symbolizing the Sun, the other the Earth – will allow us to show how the solar wind interacts with the magnetic field of our planet. Participants will be able to modify the parameters of the discharges themselves and see how the aurora is created.
3) Lasers – a new era of space communication
In this case, we will demonstrate how laser communication, recently tested in NASA missions, works. Participants will be able to send light messages themselves. Our experts will explain what amplitude modulation of light is and how it can be used to send messages that control devices. You will also be able to check how detectors react to different light sources.
Where can you find us?
IPPLM stand: Strefa Przyszłosci (Future Zone), tent E4
Saturday, 10 May 2025 r., 11.00 a.m.– 8.00 p.m.
PGE Narodowy Stadium, Warsaw
Admission is free of charge.
Interactive Picnic Map
Picnic Map to download
Why is it worth joining us?
The Science Picnic is the largest outdoor event in Europe on the subject of science. Its aim is to disseminate knowledge from various scientific disciplines by presenting interesting experiments and experiences. The Picnic allows to understand and get to know science, showing it as an extremely exciting and fascinating area of life, and by bringing closer the scientist's workshop, it encourages and inspires the participants of this event to undertake independent scientific activity.
