Last night I went to an open-house science event put on by the RWTH Aachen University called 5 vor 12. It's pretty much what I'd imagine a party put on by Bill Nye the Science Guy would look like, what with all the interactive experiments, laser shows, science slams (like a poetry slam), music groups, and a wide variety of mini-lectures.
 |
| Oh, don't mind the lecturer climbing through the audience. |
The main seminar we saw was called Kopfball. There's a weekly TV show by the same name and hosted by the same people who were on stage for the 5 for 12 event. I'd say it's the German version of MythBusters. During the 55 minute show, they blew up balloons, slurped helium while singing, and definitely got the audience involved.
 |
| Let's see what happens when we make a pulley system with Grandma's china! |
In addition to the popular science and entertaining demonstrations, I really enjoyed getting the chance to see a bit of the university campus. The Kopfball demo was in the largest lecture hall at RWTH. I also chatted with the school's radio team, who had a booth at the event. Unfortunately only university students are really welcome to participate at the station, but at least I got a free pen.
 |
| College a cappella seems to be an international phenomenon. |
And in other news, earlier this week Viktoriaschule didn't have school, so I went to the ice rink with a few of my classmates. I only had two big bruises the next day, so I'd day it was ultimately a successful skating trip. It's kind of funny, though. Currently in Salem they're dealing with freezing conditions while here in Aachen I'm seeking them out.
 |
| Just chilling in the Tivoli Eissporthalle with Myriam. |
All in all, it's rounding out to be a pretty memorable autumn. Winter is certainly ready to pounce, though. Aachen's Weihnachtsmarkt begins this Friday!
