what’s physics really about?
it’s about you and your future
2005 was International Year of Physics. Across the world, scientists showed what they could do and why physics was so exciting and important. The big challenge: help as many of the public as possible to experience and be inspired by what is often thought of as a difficult subject. An intensive programme of lectures and exhibitions was held throughout the Netherlands. Tinker created the Energy Beach Tour: the development, production and fund-raising of three weekends of ‘physical fun’ on the beach.
Trying to simplify physics wouldn’t work, but showing the impact it will have on the world of tomorrow would do much better. The Energy Beach Tour demonstrated how physicists are working on solving the problems of the future. Over three weekends, visitors to the beach made acquaintance with the natural energy of the wind, water and the sun in wind-karts, a solar cell-powered beach tent, super kites, a hydrogen-powered kart and the Nuna solar car. All of this thanks to the special collaboration we received from universities, the corporate world and campaign organizations. And despite an unluckily poor summer, 15,000 visitors and excellent press coverage.