Science Cafés

Science Cafés are a new trend around the world, allowing audiences to interact with researchers in a more intimate setting where they can directly ask questions and explore new topics. Science Cafés are often held in an informal atmosphere like a coffee shop or pub.

Bringing the Universe to Wisconsin offers multiple versions of the Science Café. The more structured option begins with a 20-25 minute overview talk that includes information about particle astrophysics, WIPAC research projects around the world, and working at the South Pole. The audience is seated at large tables consisting of 8-10 people, and at least one physicist is stationed at each table. Tables are stocked with brochures, images, and models that help the physicists to answer questions and venture into individual areas of interest.

Other Science Café events are more informal, such as the recent “Meet A Scientist” event at the Dish and Spoon Cafe in River Falls, Wisconsin. Coffee and scones were provided free during a two-hour period while WIPAC physicists hung out and engaged visitors about exploring the Universe and provided details on IceCube instrumentation.