Plasma Science and Fusion Energy Educational Outreach

The Fusion Energy Group of the Center for Energy Research at UCSD conducts a science education outreach program for K-12 and college students. This program provides opportunities for students to explore the science of plasmas (very hot ionized gases) and of controlled fusion energy through fun, hands-on activities, demonstrations, and laboratory tours. These opportunities are offered:

as part of local and national science education events, such as the Hi Tech Fair, sponsored by the San Diego Science Alliance, and the Plasma Expo, sponsored by the Division of Plasma Physics of the American Physical Society. by request as "Scientist in the Classroom" visits to area schools. tours of UCSD plasma science laboratories and the DIII-D National Fusion Facility at General Atomics The activities are led by active researchers (faculty, staff and students) in plasma science, and are tailored to the age and background of the participants. K-6 presentations focus on the four states of matter (solid, liquid, gas, and plasma) and changes (phase transitions) between these states. For older audiences, our presentations also cover fusion energy research and energy issues. This outreach program is coordinated by Rick Moyer, a research scientist and lecturer in the Center for Energy Research and Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Department of UCSD. Rick can be reached at: rmoyer@ucsd.edu, (858) 455-2275.

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