Exploring research labs, talking with scientists, and conduct experiments yourself: About 15,000 participants attended the open house at the Garching Research Campus. More than 30 institutions and companies offered insights for guests from all age groups.
Astrid Eckert / TUM A lecture on quantum computers was taking place in the lecture hall while next door, children were conducting experiments, and in the hallway, a robot was dancing: During the open house, visitors were able to experience science up close at the Garching research campus.
Prof. Jeanne Rubner, TUM's Vice President for Public Engagement, spoke with numerous visitors: "The Garching Research Campus stands for scientific excellence, innovation, and future technologies. The Open House reveals what lies behind these concepts: the people, ideas, and research that will shape our future. It is important to us to open up this campus and foster direct dialogue between the scientific community and the public."
From the Universe to Quantum Computers
Topics ranged from quantum physics and artificial intelligence to nuclear fusion, new energy storage technologies, and research into the universe. At the European Southern Observatory (ESO), interested visitors could take a look into space and learn more about current astronomical projects during planetarium shows. The Max Planck Institutes and other institutions presented topics in quantum and supercomputing, artificial intelligence, robotics, and energy and fusion research. For example, guests were able to learn about the latest developments in fusion power plants at Proxima Fusion and ASDEX Upgrade.
The program also included guided tours of the Heinz Maier-Leibnitz Research Neutron Source (FRM II). Approximately 500 visitors took part in the tours.
Astrid Eckert / TUM 
Astrid Eckert / TUM Astrid Eckert / TUM Research, puzzle, and experiment
At numerous stations, young guests could do crafts, solve puzzles, and discover new things. During the KinderUni campus expedition, they solved riddles, explored the grounds, and collected stamps. The "Türen auf mit der Maus" event, held in parallel, also offered a diverse program-ranging from lectures to a ball lightning experiment to ice cream made with liquid nitrogen. In the "Escape from Carbonia" escape room, the young guests learned about energy research in a playful way.
Interested visitors and families remained on the grounds until late afternoon. The lecture by Nobel laureate Prof. Dr. Reinhard Genzel once again drew a large crowd to the lecture hall, while another group tackled the challenges in the escape room. At the same time, the last of three Science Slams took place. Throughout the day, researchers presented topics ranging from X-rays and quantum physics to theoretical chemistry and the search for dark matter in short, easy-to-understand presentations.
Astrid Eckert / TUM 
