Almost 5,000 people attended the University of Southampton's annual Science and Engineering Day on Saturday to see high-tech facilities and enjoy hands-on activities.
Families from across the south and further afield visited the university's Highfield and Boldrewood campuses, where more than 150 activities were available.
The event was held in the run-up to the university hosting the British Science Festival in September. It will bring 100 free events, exhibitions, performances and installations to the city, celebrating ideas and stories at the heart of science.
On Saturday, university facilities including the 138-metre-long towing tank, the wind tunnel, the anechoic chamber, chemical engineering labs, the cleanrooms, and the μ-VIS X-Ray Imaging Centre were open for the public to explore.
Activities included a Future Scientists dress-up photo booth, a teddy bear hospital, creating Egyptian pottery, learning basic life support, a drone simulator flying experience, making your own optical fibre, and lots of hands-on science workshops, games and activities.
There were also live science shows featuring lasers, gases and experiments, plus science stand-up comedy and talks.
Ben Littlefield, Head of Public Engagement at the university, said: "The university has held this annual event for more than 20 years now, and every year it gets better. We are hugely proud to welcome thousands of people onto our campuses to share some of the incredible work happening here and across the region.
"This year had an extra spark of excitement as we are building towards hosting the British Science Festival in September, which will showcase not only ours but other inspiring research stories and innovations from across the UK, celebrating the best of the country right here in Southampton. It was great to share a glimpse of what to expect in September!"
