On 11 February, Grade 10, 11, and 12 Physics students visited the Radio Astronomy Institute, ASTRON.
The trip began with a captivating introductory lecture by scientists at the forefront of astronomical research. Students were amazed by the latest discoveries and how the knowledge they gain in school serves as a foundation for understanding the complex challenges of our universe. Following the lecture, we toured the laboratories, where students learned about the advanced techniques and equipment scientists use daily. We then visited the Westerbork Synthesis Radio Telescope (WSRT), which was built around 1955 and was the world’s most powerful radio telescope at the time. The telescope was officially inaugurated in April 1956 by Her Majesty Queen Juliana. More fascinating facts about the WSRT can be found on the ASTRON website.
After lunch, students participated in an exciting hands-on activity—a ‘vossenjacht’ (fox hunt) in the forest. Using radio receivers, they located hidden radio transmitters by applying the principles of direction-finding and triangulation.
We look forward to our next adventure!
