Jul 16, 2025
IKTP enriches summer university with exciting insights into particle physics and astrophysics
As part of this year's TU Dresden Summer University - a program run by the Central Student Information and Counseling Service designed to inspire school students to study STEM subjects - the Institute of Nuclear and Particle Physics (IKTP) made a significant contribution to subject diversity with several practical formats.
The program included three workshops on cloud chamber construction, which were organized by doctoral and Master's students from the IKTP. After an introductory lecture on cosmic particles that reach Earth from space, the participants were able to visualize particle tracks in self-built cloud chambers. They assembled the cloud chambers themselves and used dry ice and alcohol to create a suitable measuring set-up. This gave the young people their first experience of detector-based experimentation. The workshops were very popular and offered vivid approaches to the world of invisible particles.
In addition, two Masterclasses on nuclear astrophysics were offered. In these workshops, which lasted several hours, students were able to use real research data from observatories to investigate how heavy elements are formed in stars - a fascinating insight into the connection between nuclear physics and cosmology. Playful activities such as the joint creation of a Hertzsprung-Russell diagram using profiles of various stars offered an attractive approach to the specialist content.
With these contributions, the IKTP not only made a valuable contribution to communicating current research, but also gave interested young people a direct encounter with modern physical issues and scientific methodology.
About the Summer University:
TU Dresden's Summer University enables prospective students interested in mathematics, computer science, natural sciences and technology (STEM) to spend a week getting to know student life at TU Dresden. During the Summer University, they gain insights into institutes, research facilities as well as laboratories and can become active themselves. In conversations with scientists, they learn more about their current research and the university's STEM degree programs. Visits to companies also provide insights into some professional fields.
Participants can also talk to students and find out more about student finance, halls of residence and libraries. The evening events also provide an opportunity to exchange ideas and discover Dresden.