What are the limits to understanding? When do natural phenomena and technological advances move away from wonder and into new knowledge and innovation? Researchers at Beckman spend their time doing exactly that. Scientists, engineers and researchers of all kinds work toward a better understanding of the world. 

At the Beckman Institute Open House, community members will have the opportunity to interact with their work. It’s scheduled from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday, April 10, and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, April 11, at the Beckman Institute of Advanced Science and Technology.

Some of the hundreds of scientists exhibiting their work include fifth grade students from Champaign’s South Side Elementary School. Their exhibit will showcase their research conducted within Beckman’s Microscopy Suite. With the help of microscopist Tai Josek, the students learned how imaging can unlock the mysteries behind why insects are able to do some of the things they do. 

“The questions the South Side students have been working on answering have to do with observations they’ve made about insects and other arthropods,” Josek said, “and then observing how different microscopes we have at the Beckman Institute, like the scanning electron microscope, can help or not help answer their questions based on observations. 

“These are difficult skills to gain and skills that research scientists use when conducting their research. It’s no exaggeration to say that the South Side fifth graders have been doing impressive scientific work.”

Other exhibits include fun, hands-on activities appropriate for kids and adults alike. How can light illuminate the inside of the human body? Is it magic when a piece of metal changes shape on its own? What is your brain telling you when you’re afraid, and why? How does your body know when it’s time to go to sleep? 

This year, Beckman will feature more than 35 exhibits. For the artists among us, the Imagination Station allows visitors to get creative while learning about technological designs. Are you a good liar? You can learn about the science behind lying, and how to maintain emotional resilience while anxious. 

At the Microscopy Suite, open house visitors can explore their favorite creepy-crawlies with Bugscope, learning about how insects are suited to the world around them. Visitors will also have the opportunity to see how high-tech microscopes, micro-CT scanners and high-speed cameras make insect surfaces visible, and how those insects inspire new technologies, like robotic wings. (Bugscope will be available only Friday, April 10.)

As in previous years, a scavenger hunt will encourage kids to explore as many interactive exhibitions as possible. This year’s scavenger hunt features an unexpected guest (hint: you may or may not see him, but he’s really hairy), inspired by incredible research the Beckman Institute has achieved in the past. 

The Beckman Institute Open House is an annual event and scheduled for the same weekend as Engineering Open House each year.