The Sun Dome comprises movies and interactive role play, using a portable inflatable dome which we set up in the school hall. The activity includes a ‘virtual’ journey to the Sun, introducing the processes that occur inside the big star. We also show how scientists at CCFE are using the same processes to create fusion energy for electricity in the future.
Since its launch in 2007, over 10,000 children have visited the Sun Dome – here are some of their reactions:
“I used to think that science was boring but now I know it can actually be more interesting!”
“It made a lot more sense than if you had read it out of a book.”
“When are you coming back?”
The Sun Dome workshop is currently being redeveloped this academic year, so we will open bookings for local schools in Oxfordshire and surrounding areas to experience our brand-new planetarium workshop in late 2021.
For more information please email education@ukaea.uk.
The Sun Dome is funded directly by public engagement funds from the UK Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) and Euratom.
