Earth shattering events at University of Aberdeen Open Day
The fascinating world of outer space will explode into life at the University of Aberdeen's Open Day next week (Tuesday August 24) when visitors can explore the mysteries of the universe thanks to a special Geology event.
Especially for its fifth University-wide pre-application Open Day, the University's Department of Geology and Petroleum Geology has built a giant indoor working model of the Sun's gravitational field to simulate asteroid collisions with the planets. Visitors will have the chance to launch their own asteroids into the inner part of the solar system to test for collisions with the planet.
Described as 'one of the best shows on campus', The Geology Programme will feature the Oldest Rock on Earth, and stunning mineral specimens, including samples of Britain's recently discovered and only known asteroid impact deposit.
Visitors can delve into the world of meteorites and rocks with a packed programme of events, including the 'Rock Doctor Service' - a rock, fossil and mineral identification workshop. The line-up for the day also includes a brand new display on early land plants and animals based on rocks collected locally, near Rhynie; an oilfield model, earthquake machine, and gold panning site. There will also be the chance to win real gold and a real meterorite, plus the unique opportunity to handle a 'Volcanic Bomb'.
The Geology Programme will also have on display an exhibition of fossil plants and animals found in the Rhynie chert (a local rock formation) which was part of the Royal Society's Summer Science Exhibition held in July and provides a glimpse of what life was like on land 410 million years ago.
The Geology Programme takes place between 9.30am and 3.30pm, at the Geology Department, Meston Building, King's College. To view the full list of events on The Geology Programme, visit www.abdn.ac.uk/geology.
Photo opportunity to which the media are welcome to attend:
Date: Today - Friday
Time: 2.30pm
Venue: Department of Geology & Petroleum Geology, Meston Building (near the Queen Mother Library), University of Aberdeen, King's College.
Alice Parker, a recent University of Aberdeen Geology graduate, will be involved in next week's Open Day and will be one of an experienced team of Student Ambassadors looking after and showing visitors round the campus. She will be getting a sneak preview as to some of the Earth shattering events taking place at the University of Aberdeen's Open Day and is available for photographs / filming at the Department of Geology & Petroleum Geology this afternoon.
University of Aberdeen Open Day
On Tuesday 24 August upwards of 4,000 people will descend on King's College campus when the University of Aberdeen hosts its fifth annual Open Day. A packed programme of events has been planned to showcase the University and offer potential students the chance to experience a taste of student life.
The Open Day is one of the biggest events in the University calendar and will allow prospective students the chance to get a flavour of the 620+ degree courses on offer at the University, student life and the city of Aberdeen itself. The aim is to attract potential students interested in coming to study at the University in September 2005 although late applicants for 2004 entry are also very welcome to attend.
A full programme of activities is planned ranging from presentations to campus tours, to exhibitions and Departmental activities, including a full medicine programme at the Foresterhill campus. There will be live music throughout the day and an organ recital will be held in the King's College Chapel. A wide range of interactive sessions will also be arranged for visitors to try out.
The Open Day team is ready to take calls and bookings. Places can be booked online at www.abdn.ac.uk/openday. The website also includes a full programme of events and activities. Alternatively, phone Student Recruitment and Admissions on freephone: 0800 027 1495.