The judges prepare to declare the science trivia competition winners. (Credit: Joseph Caputo)
– by Joseph Caputo
UK-based science magazine New Scientist stepped off the newsstands this afternoon and came to Cambridge’s Technology Square for a party. In a grassy courtyard surrounded by leading research institutions, locals sampled free drinks and food before heading over to a nearby Wii competition.
Although the Block Party was for advertising purposes only, (I am now the proud owner of Pfizer chapstick), New Scientist couldn’t help infusing some geekiness into their event. Dozens entered a science trivia contest to win prizes like a copy of “Why Don’t Penguin’s Feet Freeze,” a 1.5 G flash drive or an iPod shuffle. Questions on the closest platypus relative, deep-sea vents, and nuclear reactors kept the competition fierce. (It is no surprise, however, that Team ScienceMetropolis.com won the science in Massachusetts round.)
Those who haven’t heard of New Scientist should definitely pick up an issue. It is a weekly publication that covers the latest world news in science, space, technology and the environemnt. Their feature stories are often evocative and timely. Some of the latest include where to find black holes, the psychology of leadership and racing rockets. And unlike the more stuffy science publications, they are a strong supporter of fun.