By Tim Ryan

Mark your calendars for a spectacular day of science and exploration! The U.S. Department of Energy’s Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility, affectionately known as Jefferson Lab, is delighted to invite the public to its 40th-anniversary open house. This free event, set for June 8, offers a unique peek into the vibrant world of scientific research and technological advancement.

Virginia is for Science Lovers! That’s the theme for this year’s open house at Virginia’s renowned national lab. Prepare to fall in love with science all over again or for the first time as you witness firsthand how cutting-edge technologies and research are reshaping our understanding of the universe. From visualizing protons to assembling experimental detectors and contributing to the world’s next major particle collider, Jefferson Lab is a hub of innovation and discovery.

Family Fun and Educational Delight – The open house isn’t just for scientists and researchers; it’s a family affair! With activities like operating an accelerator in tandem, exploring nuclear physics through 3D experiments, and tinkering with magnets, there’s something to spark curiosity in visitors of all ages. The campus will be bustling with interactive exhibits, including insights into scientific data gathering and the latest in data science innovations.

Celebrating Four Decades of Scientific Excellence – Since its inception on August 3, 1984, Jefferson Lab has grown from a modest facility into a sprawling 170-acre complex employing over 800 individuals and hosting thousands daily. This open house not only celebrates past achievements but also looks forward to the future of physics research. Special highlights include a retrospective of the lab’s 40-year history and efforts to preserve this legacy through digitizing archival materials.

Community and Collaboration – The event will also showcase exhibits from local science centers, community groups, leading technology innovators, and university physics departments. It’s a testament to Jefferson Lab’s commitment to fostering a collaborative environment that enriches its community and propels scientific inquiry.

Plan Your Visit – The gates open early with free parking available from 8:30 a.m. at Canon Virginia, 12000 Canon Blvd., Newport News. The event runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., featuring local food vendors across the site for your convenience. Shuttle buses will be available to transport visitors among the various exhibits, ensuring a comprehensive and enjoyable experience for all attendees.

For additional information, to plan your visit, or to be added to the event information distribution list, please visit the Jefferson Lab open house website at https://www.jlab.org/openhouse or contact via email at openhouse@jlab.org.

Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity to explore the frontier of science and technology – where curiosity meets discovery at Jefferson Lab’s open house!

Contact:
Duane Bourne
Jefferson Lab Communications Office
Email: duane@jlab.org

You can read the official press release here.