Professor Jo van den Brand, spokesperson of Virgo, will give an evening lecture on gravitational waves. In this lecture he will give an introduction to the theory behind gravitational waves, a description of the sources and the way in which we can measure them, and he will discuss in detail the discoveries that have been done up till now. Finally, he will discuss the Einstein Telescope, why this is more sensitive than previous detectors, and what wealth of new astrophysical information we will have to expect.

Location: Aula Minderbroedersberg 4-6, Maastricht
Time: 20:00 hours
Language: Dutch

For students of physics we will show the cinema hit Interstellar, but not without an educational touch of course. Previous to the film a university teacher will ask questions which the students will have to answer during the film. After the presentation, we will discuss these questions and an explanation will be given about what is really true in this film. For those who are interested, the film Interstellar will also be shown in the evening. As Nobel Prize winner Kip Thorne was co-author of this film, we can expect the physics of the script to be true. A university teacher will discuss this with you before and after the film.

Location: Lumiere, Maastricht
Time: 11:00 hours (class) and 19:.00 hours
Language: Dutch

For students with physics in their profile: ask your question about black holes, the origin of the universe, gravitational waves and your most bizarre science fiction dream by means of video message. All videos will be collected per class. Scientists present will answer the questions during the conference. We will also make a video of this, which can be shown in class as part of the lesson.

Location and time: to be decided
Language: Dutch

In secondary education, the special relativity theory is often explained by means of thought experiments of trains, mirrors and light rays. This explanation, unfortunately, comes with many misconceptions.

This masterclass is aimed at teachers of physics who are looking for new tools to explain the relativity heory to their pupils, who have encountered misconceptions or who wish to deepen their conceptual knowledge. The workshop is also open to ambitious pre-university students.

Location: Kapoenstraat 2, Maastricht
Time: 11:00 hours
Language: Dutch

For bachelor students who are following a training or are very much interested in physics. The lecture, given by an expert in the field of gravitational waves, will deal with the relativity theory and the latest developments, which have been discussed during the conference.

Location: MECC
Time: 13:00 hours
Language: English