In past years, the UNC Science Expo has drawn around 8,000 visitors to Morehead Planetarium – and with decent weather predicted for Saturday, this year’s event should be no different.

“This is really the best opportunity anyone can have to see behind the scenes into science lab research,” said Karen Kornegay, public information officer for Morehead Planetarium and the UNC Science Expo. “There’ll be behind-the-scenes tours and labs, exhibits, demos – lots of hands-on activities.”

The Expo takes place April 11 from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m., with activities and exhibits geared to appeal to kids of all ages.

There’s a Small Science play area designed for pre-schoolers. And high-schoolers looking at colleges will find much of interest as well.

“I talked to one woman yesterday who wanted to bring her teenage son, who is thinking about coming to school here,” said Kornegay. “She was hoping that he would be able to see into some of the labs, and talk with some of the graduate students and professors. And, absolutely, he’ll be able to do all of those.”

The UNC departments of anthropology, nanotechnology, medicine, marine sciences, and computer science will all participate.

“Our computer science folks are opening op their labs, so you can explore robotics and virtual environments,” said Kornegay.

Morehead Planetarium has partnered with Chapel Hill Parks and Recreation for the event. The town will sponsor the Solar Stage, featuring live entertainment; and the Sustainability Center, where people can learn about environmentally friendly lifestyle options.

Admission and parking are free on campus, with additional parking available at pay lots along Franklin Street.

No registration is required.

More information is available here.