Science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) are collectively considered core technological underpinnings of an advanced society and are key success factors for our future. The creative work of talented and educated scientists and engineers is needed in our days probably more than in any previous time: global challenges demand clever solutions.
At the same time, we are faced with the problem that fewer and fewer young people are attracted to natural sciences and engineering, leading even now to difficulties in finding a properly educated workforce in these areas. So it is of great importance to find ways to inspire our youth and the general public.
MiniSpaceWorld will be a living scale model exhibit, showcasing everything from current rocket technology to basic principles of physics and astronomy, space travel as seen in science fiction and more. The famous Miniatur Wonderland in Hamburg does for model railroads what we want to do for space-themed modelers and educators. The Hamburg railroad venue has shown, by drawing over six million visitors since its opening in 2001, that high quality modeling can draw a significant audience. From model railroads to space may not be that big a leap.
The concept of MiniSpaceWorld has already proven its ability to attract young people within an international audience. The MSW Design Contest 2009: Far Worlds - Best of Science Fiction, was a great beginning, with Prize Winners from the United Kingdom, Hungary and Germany, among them 15 and 17 year old pupils!
This year MSW goes to the Moon: Creativity and vision of future are required for the MiniSpaceWorld Design Contest 2010: MoonDreams: how would you imagine a 150-200 m2 scale model layout surface - in 1:100 or 1:87, the H0 Standard of model railways, scale – of the fascinating world of our neighbor companion, the Moon? The participating teams are asked to prepare their ideas about a Moon focused exhibit hall of MSW. The themes of the design are free to choose: they can feature historical missions like the Apollo flights or the Lunokhod, imagine first permanent colonies, show a complete "Moon city" with all the necessary facilities, or present future activities like regolith processing and mining of various minerals.
Four members of our international Jury - María Catalina, David A. Dunlop, Niklas Järvstråt and William Pomerantz – shall decide about the MSW Awards, including a first prize valued at least 1,500 Euros; the MSW Community Prize will be awarded via online voting. The award ceremony will be held in Budapest,
The contest is open for participants from all over the world. Teams may be 1 to 6 people large and any participant can be in multiple teams. The language of the contest is English. Registration at the MSW-Website is necessary for participation.
Submission deadline is: 30th September 2010 |
