China launched its first national science popularization month today, starting a 30-day nationwide carnival of science.
Organized by the China Association for Science and Technology, the activities will spotlight scientific innovation achievements, celebrate the scientific spirit and the legacy of scientists, and make science accessible to the public.
Opening ceremonies were held at the National Communication Center For Science and Technology, and the China Science and Technology Museum in Beijing. More than a hundred related exhibitions and activities are planned for September.
Among the displays is an innovation achievement exhibition, featuring outcomes from over 30 scientific research teams. For the first time, a number of groundbreaking "first-of-their-kind" exhibits will be presented in an interactive "watch, listen, and touch" format.
"The core of this new electronic fabric is its conductive fibers. Though the fiber itself is small, it contains intricate microscopic structures. When we apply an alternating current, the luminescent layer emits light," said Wei Lei, a staff member at the China Science and Technology Museum.
A variety of events will be held across the country throughout the month. This nationwide effort aims to foster an atmosphere that celebrates and values science.
"We are collaborating with a broad coalition, including national societies, local science associations, enterprises, universities, research institutes, educational bases, museum networks, and academies of science," said Ni Zhiyu, head of the science popularization department of the China Association for Science and Technology.
"We will launch a series of distinctive activities across the country to create a science popularization festival that is all-encompassing, covers every region, utilizes full-media communication, and encourages participation and sharing by all citizens," Ni said.
China's revised Science and Technology Popularization Law, which took effect on December 25, 2024, designates September as the annual national science popularization month.