LIP at the European Researchers’ Night 2025
"LIP brought particle physics to European Researchers’ Night 2025 in Lisbon, Coimbra and Braga, with interactive activities for all."
LIP took part in the European Researchers’ Night (NEI) 2025, an initiative that brings science closer to citizens and opens space for dialogue between researchers and the public. Under the motto “Science for Global Challenges”, hundreds of people engaged directly with particle physics through activities organised by LIP in Lisbon, Coimbra and Braga.
Lisbon: cosmic rays, neutrinos and ATLAS
In Lisbon, LIP was present in two different venues. At the National Museum of Natural History and Science (MUHNAC), in an event coordinated by MUHNAC/University of Lisbon, the team presented demonstrations on cosmic rays and neutrinos. At the Pavilhão do Conhecimento, in a programme coordinated by Agência Ciência Viva, LIP showcased its work on the ATLAS detector at the LHC.
Coimbra: a Science Route through the city centre
In Coimbra, the NEI took place in the historic city centre, along a “Science Route” coordinated by the University of Coimbra. More than 600 researchers from 30 centres participated. LIP contributed with the activity “Journey into the Invisible World of Cosmic Rays”, combining a spark chamber, virtual reality headsets and an open space for dialogue on particle physics research.
Braga: over 2000 visitors at Forum Braga
At Forum Braga, the European Researchers’ Night attracted 2,032 visitors, in an event coordinated by the School of Sciences of the University of Minho together with the Iberian International Nanotechnology Laboratory (INL). In its space, LIP invited the public to observe working particle detectors, take part in a virtual visit to a cosmic ray experiment, follow real-time measurements with a balloon, snap a selfie at a mural recreating the LHC tunnel, and even build cloud chambers to directly observe particles.
Science without barriers
LIP’s participation in the NEI demonstrates how fundamental research can be shared and understood beyond the laboratory. By revealing the invisible world of particles, LIP sparks curiosity, strengthens scientific culture, and inspires new generations to see science as part of how we understand the Universe.
See the full photo album of ERN 2025