Famous astronaut Chris Hadfield will soon blast off to Dublin to appear at UCD Festival.
The programme for the festival, which takes place on Saturday, June 11, has just been announced and features a day jam-packed with events and activities for all the family.
The UCD Festival is described as a major celebration of culture, science and innovation and invites Dubliners to enjoy over 130 events across the university's Belfield campus.
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This year's festival will include live performances, masterclasses, interactive science displays, creative workshops and a host of family-friendly activities as well as a BBQ area with live DJs. All events are free for the public to attend and open to all.
As part of the programme of events that had been announced, famed astronaut Chris Hadfield will be there as part of one of the festival's flagship ‘In Conversation’ events.
Chris has orbited the earth hundreds of times and became famous when he shared a video of him signing David Bowie's Space Oddity and other content from space. He will be in conversation with Dr Niamh Shaw about all things space, science and fiction writing.
In terms of culture at UCD Festival, there is plenty on offer including poetry readings, exhibitions, museum tours and performances throughout the campus. Actor and writer Mark O’Halloran will be hosting a writing masterclass for stage and screen.
Meanwhile, the UCD Symphony Orchestra in Virtual Reality event will allow visitors to try out a VR headset that will transport them to an immersive 360-degree concert at St. Patrick’s Cathedral.
Those interested in science, technology and innovation will enjoy a range of workshops, talks and demonstrations..
Visitors will have the opportunity to meet Pepper the Robot, the world’s first social humanoid robot with the ability to recognise faces and basic human emotions.
There will also be 3D printing experts there as well as the latest in immersive technology with the Virtual Reality UCD LAB Demonstrations.
Family events taking place on the day include The Medtronic Junior Hospital, which is an interactive, experiential space where young people get the opportunity to immerse themselves in a unique mini-hospital setting.
Additionally, The Roman Military Society of Ireland will be back to bring ancient Rome to life in UCD.
The UCD Festival will take place on June 11 from 12pm to 6pm. All events are free but booking may be required for some events.
For more information head to www.ucd.ie/festival.
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