The ‘Different School Week’: nearly 700 children discovered astronomy through interactive activities

Between March 26 and April 3, 2026, nearly 700 children took part, at the Astronomical Institute of the Romanian Academy, in a series of educational activities dedicated to astronomy, having the opportunity to discover or deepen their knowledge of this field through observations and direct interaction with the institution’s specialized equipment.

During the activities dedicated to the study of meteorites, the students were able to analyze sections of metallic meteorites, which gave them the opportunity to observe structures specific to the cooling and solidification processes of metal under the conditions in which celestial bodies are formed. Pallasite-type structures, with iron-nickel associations, as well as chondritic meteorites, were also presented, giving participants a clearer picture of the diversity of materials originating from outer space.

In the Planetarium Hall, the presentations highlighted the issue of the impact of cosmic bodies with our planet and the consequences such events may have for Earth. Here, the public also took part in other astronomy education sessions, designed to stimulate curiosity and interest in the Universe.

The large interactive tablets provided an engaging and accessible way to explore astronomical information, including through the use of anaglyph glasses, which made it possible to observe 3D images and spectacular representations of astronomical objects.

The former scientific research rooms, Meridian and the Equatorial Dome, currently under conservation, were opened to visitors, giving them the opportunity to come into direct contact with the spaces where the Astronomical Institute’s specific activity was carried out over time. In addition, in the Solar Dome, which is still active in scientific research, participants were able to observe the real-time monitoring of solar activity using the Zeiss refractor, equipped with filters and a special camera.

Through these activities, our visitors had the chance to learn through science and astronomy in a vivid, direct, and captivating way, in a dialogue mediated by guides, with the scientific heritage and current scientific research.

Published on: Apr 08, 2026