More than 4,000 turned out to see one of the Southern Hemisphere’s most important scientific facilities in action on Sunday 8 October, when the Australian Synchrotron opened up its doors.

Historically the biennial Open Day attracts more than 3,000 people and is a great opportunity for the public to learn more about the facility that is home to a light a million times brighter than the sun.

From analysing human cells, to improving medicines, to studying pre-historic fossils – the Australian Synchrotron draws global experts to its facilities to boost understanding of the world around us and build a brighter future for all Australians.

Professor Andrew Peele, Director of the Australian Synchrotron, said this was a great opportunity for people to see inside one of our most advanced pieces of science infrastructure, tour the facilities and meet world-leading scientists.

“While for us what goes on at the Synchrotron is our day-to-day business, others may not realise that the research undertaken here is truly ground-breaking,” said Professor Peele.

“From discovering new cancer treatments, to understanding more about our solar system, ANSTO supports researchers who use the Synchrotron’s brilliant light for a variety of applications and the Open Day was a way for people to find out more.

“There were a range of 90 minute tours running on the day departing every half hour, and each started with a customised introductory presentation, depending on your interests.”

The tours include the Synchrotron Science for the Family, In-Depth Science, STEM Careers, Art Meets Science and Medical Beam Time tours.  

“Keen visitors aged 13 and under, had the opportunity to attend a science workshop, which introduced young scientists to the concepts of Colour and Light, or Diffraction/Refraction,” said Peele.

“Researchers who work at ANSTO gave interesting talks about how they use the Australian Synchrotron and other instruments to improve human health, better understand our environment and support our industries.

“There was careers information for those thinking about going into the STEM field, or you can go hands-on with Swinburne University's Science Stations and test your skills on the Wave Rider surfboard.

“There were food outlets and roving entertainment, plenty of photo opportunities and regular giveaways, as well as live interviews with Australian Synchrotron staff.

“This was a great way to get up close and personal with some truly remarkable technology.”