Discover the basics of solar energy and photovoltaics through hands-on exploration and design! In this class, we will experiment with solar cells, discuss the physics behind photovoltaics, and explore how to use solar cells to charge batteries. The class will also explore basic principles of design. Students will work together to design a charging circuit, and each student will design and build their own rechargeable solar lamp by the end of the class.

Come explore the physics behind solar energy, photovoltaics, and electricity - then use your knowledge to design and build your own rechargeable solar lamp!

Learn about the history of bicycle engineering. We'll talk about take apart the innards of a bike: we'll repack bearings, respoke wheels, break and re-form chains, etc. Towards the end of the class, we will also talk about cool new bike materials and technologies like bamboo and carbon fiber frames, in addition to some cool do-it-yourself bikes. Come learn to appreciate the amount of engineering that went into designing a bicycle.

Curious about how solar cells work? Have you ever thought about harnessing the power of the sun to charge your cellphone or music player? Come learn about photovoltaics and power electronics, then use that knowledge to design and build your own small solar panel. We'll also show you how to use it to power a USB port, so you can recharge your iPod or smart phone. Bring your favorite USB device!

Use rechargeable batteries and a small solar panel to power a lamp you design and build yourself.

Want to put your engineering skills to the test? Then come build bridges out of spaghetti! Three different thicknesses of pasta will be provided with as much hot glue as you want. There will be a competition to see who can make the lightest bridge to hold 1 kg of weight. Depending on the wants of the class, we can change up the competition to something more exciting.

Ever tried to guess how many M&Ms fit in a jar? How much power a human can output? How many ...