If we ever needed evidence that science affects our every day life then the Eyjafajallajokull volcanic eruption provides it in so many ways. It has confirmed that we reside on a living, dynamic planet rather than a clump of dead stone. Interest has been raised in how weather and natural disasters are predicted and modelled. It demonstrates how even our most advanced technology can be disabled by nature and it highlights just how dependent we have become on flight, something was not even conceivable just 200 years ago. Our aim for Cafe Sci is that we should have a similar, but admittedly less dramatic, effect as the volcano. We strive to demonstrate that science is a part of all aspects of life from sugar to space shuttles grabbing young people’s interest in the subject and highlighting just how many doors a future in science could open.
We here at Cafe Sci hope you had a very enjoyable Easter break although we do realise that many of our schools are still closed due to staff absence caused by the un pronounceable volcano. However as soon as you are ready to hold another Cafe Sci, I as schools liaison manager, am here to help where possible. We would also to love to hear about any Cafes held before the Easter break and share news of them in our next newsletter.
Over the Easter break we have been busily working away to secure future funding for Cafe Sci. Between volcanoes, elections and an economic recession the future of so many aspect of life seems to be unclear but what we can be sure of is that Science will continue to play a vital role in everyday life. Hopefully the Volcano will only effect our lives in the short term but we hope Cafe Sci will continue to improve impressions and understanding of science for years to come.
Sarah-Jane Judge
