Physics and Astronomy news

On Saturday 17 May, the Faculty of Science, Engineering and Medicine represented the University of Sussex at STEM in the Park 2025 — a free, family-friendly science festival held in Crawley’s Memorial Gardens.

More than 1,000 visitors engaged with Sussex-led activities designed to make science visible, hands-on, and exciting for young people and their families. Teams from the Schools of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, Engineering and Informatics (with Sussex AI), Life Sciences, and Psychology delivered a wide range of interactive demos. These included space talks, probing emotional states with thermal imaging, AI demonstrations, a plant health application, and quantum technologies.

Professor Steve Wilkins, Head of Astronomy and Director of Outreach and Public Engagement said: “It’s about making science visible, tangible, and exciting for the next generation — and our teams absolutely delivered.”

One parent said: “This event is just what we need in Crawley, especially with so few STEM clubs available for our children. The variety of stands and STEM-related activities were amazing, and the guidance from the exhibitors was incredibly valuable.”

Kellie Powney, Research Projects Officer for Astronomy and Experimental Particle Physics, who coordinated Sussex’s involvement, added: “the energy and enthusiasm from our team was incredible. Huge thanks to all our staff and volunteers who made it such a success.”

Want to get involved in 2026?

Planning for next year’s event will begin early in the new year. Sussex encourages staff, researchers, and students to take part — whether by running a stall, volunteering, or developing science communication skills.

To express interest, contact Kellie Powney at k.a.powney@sussex.ac.uk.

Sussex remains committed to inspiring the next generation through creative, hands-on STEM outreach.

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