This year’s Researchers’ Night programmes at Óbuda University attracted several thousand visitors, giving the public an opportunity to discover the behind-the-scenes world of scientific research and explore both established and cutting-edge innovations at close range. The university’s venues in Budapest and Székesfehérvár offered visitors a glimpse into the world of science through interactive experiments, laboratory tours and presentations by dedicated researchers and professionals, bringing the technologies shaping our future closer to the public.
The latest developments in information technology and artificial intelligence were given a prominent role at the event. During the presentations, visitors could see live how ChatGPT interprets words as tokens, while programmes focusing on cyber awareness and gamification explored the educational potential of Minecraft, virtual reality and 3D printing. A live mobile-based voting activity also demonstrated how psychological manipulation works, while other presentations offered insights into the fascinating relationship between music and digital data communication.
Those interested in robotics and medical technologies were able to enjoy particularly special experiences. Visitors could use VR headsets and controllers to operate a more than 1.5-metre-tall Unitree G1 humanoid robot in real time, play ball with a quadruped robotic dog equipped with machine vision, or test their manual dexterity by operating a precision surgical robotic arm using a VR headset. Participants could also explore computer-based robot education and try their hand at programming KUKA and UR industrial robots.
Fans of spectacular experiments were treated to a thrilling electrostatic demonstration using a Van de Graaff generator and colourful chemistry laboratory activities. Those looking for a more hands-on experience could use their smartphones to bring a V43 locomotive to life, design products and optimise production processes through engineering challenges, or take part in weaving and pattern-design workshops. Visitors could also learn about the structure of nuclear power plants and the new material properties of concrete.
Those seeking a touch of nostalgia, as well as the youngest visitors, could test their skills in classic games such as Pac-Man and Donkey Kong at the Retro Game Corner. In this way, the event offered visitors of all ages an engaging, accessible and inspiring introduction to the world of science and technology.
