Athens, December 9, 2025 – The Athens Science Festival is set to host “The Christmas Lab,” a captivating two-day event focusing on astronomy and astrophysics, from December 20 to 21, 2025, at the Athens Conservatoire. This festive gathering promises a blend of scientific exploration, knowledge, and inspiration for both children and adults, featuring a series of engaging talks, stargazing opportunities, and a special documentary screening.
Exploring the Invisible Universe and Citizen Science
On Sunday, December 21, at 7:00 PM, Dr. Eleni Vardoulaki will deliver a compelling talk titled “The Invisible Universe & Citizen Science.” This presentation will delve into the origins of the universe and contemporary observation methods, explaining why a diverse array of telescopes, both terrestrial and space-based, is essential. Dr. Vardoulaki will illuminate how astronomical objects and phenomena, from radio waves to X-rays, remain imperceptible to the naked eye but are revealed through advanced technology. Attendees will embark on an exploration of the “invisible” universe, learning how citizens can actively contribute to modern scientific research and the dynamic role of Citizen Science in fostering groundbreaking discoveries.
The Winter Solstice and its Christmas Connection
The program kicks off on Saturday, December 20, at 6:00 PM with a talk by Athanasios Evangelopoulos from the “Dioskouroi” Astronomy Association of Sparta. His presentation, “The Winter Solstice and its Relation to Christmas,” will explore the winter solstice as a pivotal point in Earth’s orbit around the Sun, a phenomenon recognized since antiquity and interwoven with the traditions of numerous cultures and the celebration of Christmas. This interactive talk promises to captivate audiences of all ages by intertwining science with history and traditions.
Stargazing in the Athenian Christmas Sky
Following Mr. Evangelopoulos’s talk on Saturday, December 20, at 7:30 PM, the public will have a unique opportunity to observe the starry Athenian sky through telescopes. This stargazing session will be conducted in collaboration with the “Dioskouroi” Astronomy Association of Sparta and the Astronomical & Astrophysical Society of Western Greece, offering a direct experience of celestial wonders.
Award-Winning Documentary Screening: SALLY
The evening of Saturday, December 20, will conclude with a screening of the documentary “SALLY” at 9:30 PM. Produced by National Geographic, this 2025 production has garnered significant acclaim, winning the Prix UPSIDE at the Pariscience – Paris Science Festival and the Alfred P. Sloan Feature Film Prize at Sundance 2025. The film chronicles the remarkable life of Sally Ride (1951-2012), the first American woman to journey into space in 1983 as part of the STS-7 mission aboard the Space Shuttle Challenger. After her space missions, Ride dedicated her life to promoting STEM education, particularly among girls and young people. “SALLY” is described as a deeply inspiring documentary about space, science, and the power of human vision.
Access to all talks, the stargazing event, and the documentary screening is included with a General Admission ticket, valid for the respective day of each event. Beyond the astronomical program, The Christmas Lab will also feature carols, traditional melomakarona, and impressive experiments, creating a rich and diverse experience.
The Athens Science Festival 2025 is organized by the educational organization “Science Communication – SciCo” and the British Council, in collaboration with a multitude of academic, research, and educational institutions.
Source: https://www.ertnews.gr/eidiseis/politismos/the-christmas-lab-xristougenniatiko-rantevou-me-ta-astra-apo-to-athens-science-festival/
