‘Touchy feely’ creatures bring live touch to nautical studies

The NAFC Marine Centre is unveiling a new exhibition at next month’s Science and Technology Fair, complete with the ever-popular touchy feely tank of sea creatures and other displays to help bring its work in marine science, engineering and nautical studies to life.

Comprising four sections covering the different departments at the marine centre, there is much for visiting children and adults to explore.

The popular Seas Around Us project will take up one quadrant with a tank of sea creatures found in the waters around the isles. This activity has already proved an exciting attraction in the past, giving children an opportunity to get up close to local marine life.

A second quadrant of the stand will celebrate Darwin 200, the bicentenary of the birth of Charles Darwin. In the 19th century, he researched barnacles for many years and this work became the foundation for his theories of natural selection and evolution. The marine science and technology department will have barnacles to view on a big screen and visitors will be able to find out more about this fascinating creature.

Shetland Seafood Quality Control will occupy a third quadrant and will be demonstrating the vital service they provide for the isles’ seafood industries including looking at microbiology, bacteria and seabed sampling.

Finally, Shetland School of Nautical Studies is bringing a ship simulator to the stand and will encourage visitors to try their hand at navigating a virtual boat around Shetland. There will also be a number of engineering activities to participate in.

NAFC director David Gray said: “This is an excellent opportunity for us to connect with the young people of Shetland and demonstrate both the hugely important work we carry out at the centre as well as future career opportunities available.

“Our new exhibition stand is a great way for us to showcase our work through fun and educational activities, interactive touch screen quizzes and even just talking with members of staff about what they do.

“We’re very much looking forward to being part of such an important event that gives exhibitors a unique opportunity to stimulate interest in science and technology from an early age.”

The fair takes place at Clickimin Leisure Complex in Lerwick from Monday 18th to Friday 22nd May.