Looking for something different to do this Valentine’s night?
Why not discover a little of the science behind aspects of love and romance at a special occasion taking place this Sunday (February 14) at Aberdeen’s Satrosphere Science Centre.
The University of Aberdeen’s Public Engagement with Science team has organised the free Love Under the Stars event which takes place between 6pm and 9pm. And the event is open to all – not just couples.
Aberdeen Astronomical Societywill be there with their telescopes. Weather depending, there should be a chance to view Mars which could be very prominent in the sky.
President of the Society Torcuill Torrance will give an insight into how the dark New Moon sky can give an opportunity to view much more than usual.
Techfest-SetPoint’s Cosmic Dome will also be offering romantic tales under their portable planetarium.
Universityof Aberdeenresearch scientists will give short talks on their areas of research related to romance.
Dr Alex Johnstone, from the University’s Rowett Institute for Nutrition and Health, will explain how aphrodisiac foods can enhance the mood of love.
Dr Ben Jones and Dr Lisa deBruine, who run the University’s Face Research Lab, will discuss how we judge beauty.
And Dr Marco Thiel, mathematician and systems biologist, will explain how our relationships may be more predictable than we might think.
Visitors will be greeted with a glass of pink champagne, chocolate fountain and also get the chance to follow Satrosphere’s love trail and win a selection of prizes including a meal for two at Aberdeen’s Hilton Treetops hotel.
Dr Ken Skeldon, from the University’s Public Engagement with Science Unit, has organised the evening. He said: “We’re hoping Love Under The Stars will offer something different to do this Valentine's evening which happens to coincide with the next New Moon. The format will be fun and light-hearted, but we'll also be highlighting the impact and applications of current scientific research."
The event, which is partly supported by a science engagement grant from the Scottish Government, is one of the last events in the city to celebrate International Year of Astronomy.