SCIENCESTARS Issue 14 | May/June 2017
ASTROPHYSICS
The Square Kilometre Array The world's largest radio telescope
The Square Kilometre Array (SKA) is a large multi-radio telescope project that will be built in Australia and South Africa. The construction is scheduled to begin in 2018. SKA will enable astronomers to monitor the sky more than ten thousand times faster than ever before.
How does a radio telescope work? A radio telescope has several main parts including a dish and antenna, a receiver, a detector, and an analyser. The dish collects the radio signals from space and focuses them on the antenna. A larger dish will collect more radio waves and lead to a stronger signal at the antenna.
Some jobs related to radio astronomy: • Astronomers and astrophysics • Engineers • Technicians
Facebook.com/MzansiForScience Mzansi4Science
CONTENTS CONTENTS
FEATURES
8 1 1 1 2 2 2 2 3 3
WHAT IS ASTROPHYSICS?
2
THE BIG BANG THEORY
5
PROFILE
8
SALT
4 DST
6 CSIR
9 THALES
7
Space decoded
2
GRASSROOTS INNOVATION
7
MOBILE SCIENCE LABS
REGULARS
6 1 2 3 3 3 3 3 3
3
Editor's note
SPACE Facts
8
Top universities
1
Bursaries
3
Quiz
4
Puzzles
5
Puzzle answers
6
Science news
8 Experiment
ED’S NOTE
team Science Stars
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
Editor • Sihle Qekeleshe
Bringing the stars to you
Astrophysicists have done quite an amazing job – they have devised instruments, invented the Science of optics, and used Mathematics to explain the wonders they observe. But what exactly does Astrophysics entail? This issue provides a clear and simple description of several aspects of Astrophysics while branching out into Cosmology, in a language understandable to anyone. You can expect to read some of the most amazing Astronomy facts, and if you’ve been asking yourself about the difference between a comet and a meteorite and you never really get your answer, look no further! We also introduce you to The Big Bang Theory (no, not the comedy series) – the key theory in Astrophysics. You know we always have your back, so if you need to know about available Science bursaries, which top universities offer Astrophysics in South Africa, and where to visit the largest single optical telescope in the southern hemisphere, we have that information for you right here.
Graphic designers • Cinzia-Joey Swartz • Stacey Okkers Contributing writers • Nadine Sims • Zama Mthethwa • Renata Williams • Miyamoto Musashi Chairman • Madambi Rambuda Ambassador • Prof. Azwindinni Muronga Subscriptions • info@sciencestars.co.za Copyright 2017 Roswika Media. All Rights Reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or any means, electronically or mechanically, without prior permission. Science Stars is published by Roswika Media.
Astrophysics is quite vast, but trust me, it is very interesting. So go on, read through this issue for more on the study. But, remember, the learning does not end here. Do some of your own research and become a Science star!
Sihle Qekeleshe Ediitor 10th Floor, The Pinnacle 2 Burg Street Cape Town, 8000 021 839 2507 info@sciencestars.com www.sciencestars.co.za
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Science Stars Magazine Astrophysics Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za
A journey of hard work and perseverance: How a CSIR researcher is impacting lives through science
C
an you imagine being unable to drink a glass of water because the water is too dirty to be considered safe? Or having no access to water simply because there is no water infrastructure? Unfortunately, this is a sad reality for millions of South Africans, especially those living in rural communities, but people like Dr Phumelele Kleyi are working hard to find ways to help these very communities have access to clean water by using modified nanomaterials to develop water purification technologies. Nanotechnology is the science of building all kinds of fantastic materials, everything from brand new medicines to ultra-fast computer chips. Kleyi is a research chemist and works for the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR). For most chemists, chemistry is not only about exploring and developing new material products, but it is about improving the quality of life for all people, making a positive contribution to society and transforming life-changing ideas into society-orientated and impact-focused solutions. Kleyi is part of a CSIR water research group that develops nanomaterials for the removal of contaminants from water. These contaminants include organic substances such as dyes, inorganics such as ions and harmful microorganisms such as bacteria or viruses. “We want people to have a device that helps them to purify their own water, so that they don’t drink water that makes them sick. Such a device could be connected to a tap, or be a portable pot that filters water through modified nanomaterials. We use nanoclays, a very fine type of soil and often a by-product of mining, which are modified to remove contaminants and to add disinfection properties,” says Kleyi. Some of Kleyi’s research results have been published in a peerreviewed journal, while an application for invention disclosure for another nanomaterial has been submitted. “We are currently negotiating to partner with a key water treatment industry player, hoping to eventually commercialise this product.” Kleyi joined the organisation in 2014 and research centres on the development of nanostructured materials for water disinfection. Even though Kleyi has found himself working for such a great organisation, his journey to this point has not always been easy. After finishing matric in 1994, Kleyi enrolled at the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (University of Port Elizabeth at the time) to study a Bachelor of Pharmacy degree. “I passed mathematics and physics, but failed the other pharmacyrelated subjects. I did not have money to return the following year
and spent a year at home. It was painful, to realise your peers are progressing, but you are not.”
In 1997 Kleyi enrolled for a BSc, but after his second year, he once again ran into financial difficulty and suspended his studies for four years.
“The irony is that I qualified for funding from the university, but due to outstanding debt, I was not allowed to register for the following academic year.”
“To get where I am today, was not plain sailing,” says Kleyi, who has a PhD in chemistry. “I want to encourage students studying chemistry who face financial and academic challenges, to not give up finding their niche.” Kleyi worked several jobs, including a stint on an assembly line at Volkswagen to save money, but then qualified for funding from the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS). “This time, I pushed through and completed my BSc, BSc Hons, MSc and PhD with no further interruptions. When I ran into financial difficulty, the first time, I should have asked for help to find funding opportunities within the institution. Because I was young and the first from my family to go to university, I had no one to give me that advice. I only heard later, from my peers who had similar difficulties, about the NSFAS. My advice to young people in a similar situation would be not to wait, but to communicate with the university as soon as problems arise. Information is now a lot more readily available than back then – there are always options.” If you want to become a research chemist like Kleyi, you must have a passion for scientific research and an academic background in chemistry. You should also be able to work independently, be a problem solver and be able to pay special attention to detail. Research chemists work in laboratories to develop new chemical compounds that are typically needed in medicine and other scientific innovations. Don’t want to become a research chemist, but still love chemistry? Try other careers like material scientist, chemical engineer, forensic scientist and process chemist. These degrees are offered at most South African universities. To find out more information on the remarkable career opportunities at the CSIR, please visit our website www.csir.co.za
COVER STORY
THE LAW OF PHYSICS AND CHEMISTRY Discovering how the universe works
strophysics is a branch of Space
A
3/ Are we alone?
also present on Earth. Spectroscopy also
Science that applies the laws of
It all began with Isaac Newton
revealed that some nebulae are purely gas-
Physics and Chemistry to explain
While astronomy is one of the oldest sci-
eous, while some contain stars. This later
the birth, life and death of stars, planets,
ences, Theoretical Astrophysics began with
helped cement the idea that some nebulae
galaxies, nebulae and other objects in
Isaac Newton. Prior to Newton, astronomers
were not nebulae at all — they were other
the universe. It has two sibling sciences,
described the motions of heavenly bodies
galaxies!
Astronomy and Cosmology, and the lines
using complex mathematical models with-
between them are often blurred.
out a physical basis.
In the early 1920s, Cecilia Payne discovered, using spectroscopy, that stars are predomi-
In simple terms, Astronomy measures posi-
Newton showed that a single theory simul-
nantly made up of hydrogen (at least until
tions, luminosities, motions and other char-
taneously explains the orbits of moons and
their old age).
acteristics. Astrophysics creates physical
planets in space and the route of a can-
theories of small to medium-size structures
nonball on Earth. This added to the body of
Also in the mid-19th century, the physicists
in the universe. Cosmology does this for
evidence for the (then) startling conclusion
Lord Kelvin (William Thomson) and Gustav
the largest structures, and the universe as
that the heavens and Earth are subject to
Von Helmholtz speculated that gravita-
a whole. In practice, the three professions
the same physical laws.
tional collapse could power the sun, but eventually realized that energy produced
form a tight-knit family. Perhaps what most completely separated
this way would only last 100 000 years.
Goals of astrophysics
Newton’s model from previous ones is that
Astrophysicists seek to understand the
it is predictive as well as descriptive. Based
Fifty years later, Einstein’s famous E=mc2
universe and our place in it. At NASA, the
on abnormalities in the Newtonian orbit of
equation gave astrophysicists the first clue
goals of astrophysics are “to discover how
Uranus, astronomers predicted the position
to what the true source of energy might
the universe works, explore how it began
of a new planet, which was then observed
be (although it turns out that gravitational
and evolved, and search for life on planets
and named Neptune. Being predictive as
collapse does play an important role).
around other stars.”
well as descriptive is the sign of a mature
NASA states that those goals produce three broad questions:
Science, and Astrophysics is in this category. Astrophysics is the physics of stars and other distant bodies in the universe, but it
Milestones in Astrophysics
also hits close to home. According to the
1/ How does the universe work?
Early spectroscopy provided the first
Big Bang Theory, the first stars were almost
2/ How did we get here?
evidence that stars contain substances
entirely hydrogen. The nuclear fusion pro-
COVER STORY
cess that energizes them smashes together
edge of physics to explore various occur-
Astrophysics, while a Master of Science
hydrogen atoms to form the heavier ele-
rences in space such as dark matter, black
(MSc) degree in Astrophysics is required
ment helium.
holes, stellar evolution, super clusters, and
for most research assistant and consulting
neutron stars.
positions.
In 1957, the husband-and-wife astronomer team of Geoffrey and Margaret Burbidge,
How to Become an Astrophysicist
along with physicists William Alfred Fowler
If you want to become an astrophysicist,
A Doctoral (PhD) degree in Astrophysics is
you first need to determine if this career they produce heavier and heavier elements, path is a good fit for you. which they pass on to later generations of
most likely needed if you want to work for
stars in ever-greater quantities.
Astrophysicists are individuals that have a
to work in most government research posi-
keen interest in astronomic objects, space,
tions.
and Fred Hoyle, showed how, as stars age,
a college or university as a lecturer or a researcher. You will also likely need a PhD
It is only in the final stages of the lives of
and the physical universe as a whole; they
more recent stars that the elements mak-
tend to read over and above what is taught
Astrophysicists are hired by organisa-
ing up the Earth, such as iron 32.1%, oxy-
in the classroom.
tions involved in performing theoretical
gen 30.1% and silicon 15.1% are produced.
work, research or teaching in areas of
Another of these elements is carbon, which
Also be mindful of the fact that astrophysi-
Astrophysics. Jobs for astrophysicists in
together with oxygen; make up the bulk of
cists are well educated in Mathematics,
these areas are very competitive, as there
the mass of all living things including us.
Physics and Astrophysics; aspiring astro-
is much interest in them and relatively few
Thus, astrophysics tells us that, while we
physicists should be prepared to undertake
positions available.
are not all stars, we are all stardust.
8-10 years of post-secondary study to build the necessary knowledge base for this
What is an Astrophysicist?
The top employers are:
career. Astrophysicists also need to have
• Colleges and Universities
Astrophysicists are scientists that study the
the patience to pursue a career with low
• Government agencies
physical components of astronomic objects. turnover and few vacancies.
• Public and private research facilities
They study the physics of the universe as
• Science centres and planetariums
well as the interaction between the vari-
Thinking about employment
ous objects which occupy it. Astrophysicists
A Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree in
can either study the theoretical aspects of
Astronomy, Astrophysics or Physics
space or apply their fundamental knowl-
may qualify you for entry-level jobs in Success Tip The knowledge base and skill set of astrophysicists allows them to move into other fields such as bioinformatics, medical imaging, Science communication and many others.
COVER STORY
ASTRONOMY΄S GREATEST These notable astronomers have something in common – they’re all from South Africa! Cyril Jackson Born in Yorkshire, England, Jackson’s family moved to South Africa in 1911. He worked at Union Observatory in Johannesburg from 1928 to 1947, and discovered 72 asteroids! Age: Died at 85 (1903-1988) Birthplace: Ossett, England
Thebe Medupe Medupe is an Astrophysicist and founding director of Astronomy Africa. Along with filmmakers, Medupe travelled throughout Africa working on a project called Cosmic Africa with the aim of busting myths and sharing his scientific knowledge. Age: 44 (Born on 1 January 1973) Birthplace: Mmabatho, North-West
William Stephen Finsen After discovering several double stars, he developed the Finsen eyepiece interferometer to measure the distances between them. Asteroid 1794 Finsen was named after him, too. Age: Died at 74 (1905-1979) Birthplace: Johannesburg, Gauteng
Ernest Leonard Johnson Johnson worked at the Union Observatory and discovered 18 asteroids and several comets, including a periodic comet. Age: Died at 86 (1891-1977) Birthplace: Johannesburg, Gauteng
John Caister Bennett This amateur Astronomer is best known for discovering Comet Bennett (C/1969 Y1) and a supernova (SN 1968L) in the Messier 83 galaxy. He was a Fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society in 1974. Age: Died at 76 (1914-1990) Birthplace: Estcourt, KwaZulu-Natal
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Science Stars Magazine Astrophysics Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za
It’s what we build
3112
We all dream of a better future. For ourselves, our families and our country. SANRAL, as part of the National Development Plan, is improving and expanding vital road infrastructure. In the process we are creating jobs, transferring skills and developing opportunities for all South Africans. We are proud to be a part of the National Development Plan, because we know that roads are more than just roads, they pave the way to a better future.
More than just roads
DST
THE BIG BANG THEORY And what it means
“Our whole universe was in a hot, dense state. Then
However, most of space is empty, with huge dis-
nearly fourteen billion years ago expansion started,
tances between the galaxies. Most of the galaxies
wait…The earth began to cool, the autotrophs began
move away from each other too fast for gravity to
to drool. Neanderthals developed tools; we built a
pull them together. It’s only in a few lucky places
wall (we built the pyramids). Mathematics, Science,
that gravity manages to achieve this. The little
History, unravelling the mysteries that all started with
pieces of matter have a big enough head start that
the big bang! Hey!”
they keep on moving away. By today, most of these little clumps of matter are very far apart.
Some of you may recognise this theme song from the popular comedy series The Big Bang Theory –
If we had come along earlier, we could have seen
a show centred on physicists.
the race in action: the race between gravity trying to pull pieces of the universe back together
The Big Bang theory is an effort to explain what
and the initial, speedy matter, doing its best to run
happened during and after that moment. When the
away.
year 1900 began, we thought the entire universe consisted of the Milky Way, the stars, planets and
The earlier and earlier we imag-
nebulae inside of it, all governed by Newton’s law
ine this, the closer we get
of gravity.
to the start of the race, and that’s what the
All the little pieces of matter that started out run-
Big Bang is.
ning away from each other got pulled back together by gravity. Over billions of years, one tiny part of our galaxy wound up forming us.
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Science Stars Magazine Astrophysics Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za
DST
space facts T
he universe is endless– and there’s a lot we still don’t know about Astronomy, the sun, the moon and
many planets in our universe. Here are a few fun facts to add to your discovery dictionary!
Did you know? • The sun is over 300 000 times larger than earth. • The solar system formed around 4.6 billion years ago. • Many scientists believe that an asteroid impact caused the extinction of the dinosaurs around 65 million years ago. • The first man-made object sent into space was in 1957 when the Russian satellite named Sputnik was launched. • Halley’s Comet was last seen in the inner solar system in 1986, it will be visible again from Earth sometime in 2061. • Venus is the hottest planet in our solar system with a surface temperature of over 450°C. • The moon appears to have more craters and scars than Earth because it has a lot less natural activity going on. The Earth is constantly reforming its surface through earthquakes, erosion, rain, wind and plants growing on the surface, while the moon has very little weather to alter its appearance. • In 2006, astronomers changed the definition of a planet. This means that Pluto is now referred to as a dwarf planet. • The only planet that rotates on its side like a barrel is Uranus. The only planet that spins backwards relative to the others is Venus. Remember to keep doing research as the discoveries are never-ending!
Science Stars Magazine Astrophysics Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za
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3527
“
At my math and science. And it paid off. SANRAL’s scholarship programme is helping me to pay for my schooling to pave the way for my success.
”
Seokedzi Mothokwa is just one of the 179 learners that SANRAL’s scholarships from 2012-2013 is helping to realize his dreams of doing well and going on to study at university. It’s an investment for us, for him and for our country. Who knows what he may become – but we know that better education means more opportunities, and that means a better nation for us all.
www.sanral.co.za | 0800 SANRAL (726 725)
PROFILE
Bruce Bassett
Man of many talents By : Miyamoto Musashi
B
ruce Bassett went to high school in Cape Town in an era when the winters were cold and wet! Following a BSc and MSc in Applied Mathematics at the University of Cape Town (UCT) he went to the International School for Advanced Studies (SISSA) in Trieste, Italy, for his PhD. He then did postdoctoral research at Oxford and a year later, in 1999, became a senior lecturer at the Institute of Cosmology and Gravitation at Portsmouth University in England.
Later, Bassett returned to Cape Town to take up a joint position between the South African Astronomical Observatory (SAAO) and the Mathematics and Applied Mathematics Department at UCT where he is now a full professor. In addition to this role, he is also involved at the African Institute for Mathematical Sciences (AIMS) Research Centre as a senior researcher helping to establish cosmology. Originally interested in art, Bassett was inspired to study Science after reading The Philosophy of Science by English physicist, astronomer and mathematician James Jeans in high school.
Science Stars Magazine Astrophysics Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za
15
PROFILE
Science and art are closely related, he says. The tools
he got to learn from Sciama was the importance of
may be different but both require soul searching, pas-
networks and networking, a skill that is more important
sion, insight and creativity.
today than ever before.
And Bassett was lucky enough to grow up in a home
To any aspiring students, he recommends talking to all
where he was able to explore and express both his
the astronomers or scientists they can. Finding a men-
love for art and his
tor is a great way to navigate the tricky path to success
passion for the sciences.
in any career.
For someone who is as goal-driven and determined
Finally, he urges students to remember that with
as Bassett, and whose hard work speaks for itself, you
enough passion and desire, almost anything is possible!
would think he is less likely to have a role model, but
“It will be hard at first. But everything is hard at first,”
he does.
he quotes.
Bassett was greatly inspired by his PhD advisor, the
Current positions
late Dennis Sciama, who had significantly contributed
• Professor of Mathematics at UCT
to the study of modern Cosmology. Sciama was famed
• Head of Cosmology at AIMS South Africa
as the supervisor of Stephen Hawking and Lord Martin
• Research Cosmologist at SAAO
Rees among many other cosmologists and astrophysi-
• Vice President of the International
cists.
Astrostatistics Association • Co-author of over 100 publications with
16
Bassett claims his supervision style might be described
more than 10 000 citations including the
as “magic without magic” and one of the many things
popular science book Introducing Relativity
Science Stars Magazine Astrophysics Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za
IDENTITY IS IN THE
EYE OF THE BEHOLDER “Dare to be different, but at the same time, stay true to yourself.” GUGULETHU MABUZA-HOCQUET These are very appropriate words indeed from the woman who has committed her research to identity protection. The way Gugu sees it, your identity is all you really have – and the answer to protecting it, lies in iris biometrics. She is exploring the unique iris properties of the South African population that may just hold the key to a uniquely South African security encryption system. “Your iris does not only hold information such as your age, gender and race, it also says you are part of a demographic mix that is not found elsewhere in the world. Now imagine a future where those unique features in your eyes will protect the most valuble thing you have – your identity.” Gugu describes the way she ended up in science as a “beautiful accident”. It’s certainly one to be thankful for.
BRIGHT YOUNG SCIENTISTS BEHIND IDEAS THAT WORK. www.csirideasthatwork.co.za
SALT
SALT gets better A closer look at our window to the universe
O
n a hilltop in a nature reserve in
of the object across the sky to maximise
In addition to its remoteness, the Northern
the Northern Cape, near the small
exposure time.
Cape has a low topography that is well
town of Sutherland, stands a mas-
suited to radio astronomy, with mountains
terpiece of modern astronomical engineer-
SALT is funded by a consortium of inter-
providing extra shielding against radio
ing. The Southern African Large Telescope
national partners including the United
waves from distant metropolitan areas.
(SALT) is the largest optical telescope in
States, Germany, Poland, India, the United
the southern hemisphere, and equal to the
Kingdom and New Zealand. The construc-
The southern hemisphere is the perfect
largest in the world.
tion phase was completed at the end of
place for astronomy because it sees more
2005 and from 2006 to 2009 it entered a
of the sky than the northern hemisphere.
How does SALT work?
period of commissioning and performance
And South Africa’s sophisticated infrastruc-
It has a hexagonal primary mirror array
verification. Since September 2011, observ-
ture and first-class science and technology
11m across, comprising 91 individual
ing is now in full swing and the telescope
sector give it the capacity for some of the
1m-hexagonal mirrors. Although very simi-
is finally realising its huge potential as
best astronomical opportunities in the
lar to the US Hobby-Eberly Telescope (HET)
Africa’s Giant Eye on the universe.
world to exist.
tem resulting in a larger field of view and
Why Sutherland?
Big discoveries
effective collecting area.
Situated far away from busy city life, the
Research using SALT has led to the South
in Texas, SALT has a redesigned optical sys-
Northern Cape province has become a
African Astronomical Observatory (SAAO)
SALT collects light from astronomical
major hub for astronomical observations –
making many important discoveries. Most
objects and accurately focuses it to one
thanks to the minimal amount of artificial
recently this includes the finding of
of four focus points. From there the light
light, pollution or radio waves, the interfer-
evidence for a very strange new planetary
proceeds into an optical instrument while
ence with optical and radio astronomy is
system in which two giant planets are
the telescope tracks the relative movement also lowered.
orbiting a close pair of “suns”.
SALT
Did you know? • SALT can detect the light from faint or
• The observatory can be visited either dur-
distant objects in the universe, a billion
ing the day or at night. A day tour will take
times too faint to be seen with the unaided
you through the visitor’s centre and to des-
eye – as faint as a candle flame would
ignated research telescopes, including SALT.
appear at the distance of the moon. The
Ninety-minute night tours include the view-
telescope and instruments are designed
ing of interesting objects in the sky
to operate from the near ultraviolet to the
through two dedicated visitor telescopes,
near infrared (320 to 1 700nm) and offer
16” Meade and 14” Celestron. Visitors can-
some unique or rare capabilities on a tele-
not visit any of the research telescopes at
scope of this size.
night, including SALT.
ADVERTORIAL
Girl power reaching for the skies
Mathapelo Maile believes that girls have the power to change the face of science, because the world needs science and science needs women.
This ignited her interest further and resulted in her achieving seven distinctions in matric last year, with 94% for Physical Sciences and 90% for Mathematics. Adopt-a-School Foundation; an entity of the Cyril Ramaphosa Foundation, spotted this tenacious youngster during
Maile, a 17-year-old from Kagiso, west of Johannesburg, is
her studies at Lodirile Secondary School. The Adopt-a-
definitely a woman to watch out for as she sets her sight to
School programme strives to address the inadequacies
the sky. Her dream is to change the world by inventing aircraft
in rural, disadvantaged schools through its Whole School
that are innovatively less harmful to the environment.
Development model and works in schools and communities across the country.
Currently a first year BSc Aeronautical Engineering student at the University of Witwatersrand, Maile’s love for science began
Despite coming from a disadvantaged background, the
in high school when she joined a mathematics and science
rising science star is determined to change the course of the
tutoring programme.
aviation world.
ADVERTORIAL
“Life hasn’t always been easy, but I won’t settle for mediocrity.
covers subjects such as aerodynamics, flight dynamics,
I aim to use my education as a means to eradicate poverty in
propulsion and air transport. The course also incorporates
my family,” she states confidently.
practical work.
After achieving such exceptional results in matric, Maile was
Furthermore, Maile has recognised that environmental
offered a bursary by the Cyril Ramaphosa Education Trust
pressures and socioeconomic trends have created a growing
to fund her studies and to support her on the journey to
demand for engineers to apply their knowledge of the natural
becoming an exceptional female aeronautical scientist.
sciences to develop new solutions in critical areas, including air pollution and green energy.
According to a Wits engineering prospectus, “an aeronautical engineer is involved in the design, development and
“My plans are greater than walking on the moon or
modification of the components and systems of all types of
discovering new planets. For me, the sky is the limit – and I
flight vehicles - including fixed wing aircraft, helicopters, sail
am going to change the world as we know it. Great things
planes, airships and missiles.”
are achieved through hard work, pure determination, taking initiative, making sacrifices and having some sleepless nights”.
A recent KPMG “estimated global demand report” indicated there will be a demand for 27 000 new passenger planes
The Cyril Ramaphosa Education Trust has a holistic,
and 40 000 commercial helicopters by 2031, and with rapid
personalised approach to nurturing and mentoring
advancements in aerospace technology, the sector will
talented young South Africans to become leaders. This
continue to grow and generate high salary jobs for graduates
includes financial support, but also involves potential
with strong technical knowledge of aerospace systems and
work experiences, self-development, team building and
problem-solving innovative minds.
networking. Not only do selected bursary recipients rise above their circumstances, many also provide inspiration to
Although traditionally regarded as a male-dominated field of
others to improve their lives
expertise, more women are beginning to consider careers in aeronautical engineering.
Together with its partners, like Adopt-a-School Foundation, it will continue to make a difference in the lives and
And, Maile is one of the selected few to be accepted to study
circumstances of students such as Maile, who really is reaching
towards the four-year aeronautical degree at Wits.
for the science stars.
To provide students with a firm foundation in engineering science, the syllabuses of the first two years are identical to that of the mechanical engineering degree. In the third year, emphasis is placed on aeronautical design and the study of aircraft behaviour, while the fourth year
DST
USING SCIENCE TO SOLVE PROBLEMS Innovative students making a change
F
rom monitoring the country’s coastline for illegal fishing to assessing the needs of the public education
system, these and other problems facing the country could be addressed by using Data Science solutions. Several students from universities across the country recently showcased their Data Science projects funded by the Department of Science and Technology (DST). The Data Science for Impact and Decision Enhancement (DSIDE) programme funded by DST and implemented by the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) is aimed at building capacity in the field of Data Science and to bring solutions to real-life problems. It puts emphasis on problem solving, creativity, and encourages a curious mind.
at Pretoria University, Omolemo Matlou
information system on water-related mat-
from the University of Johannesburg, and
ters in the country.
The DSIDE programme is jointly hosted
Langa Khahla, a graduate in Statistical
at the CSIR by two business units, namely
Mathematics – has developed a mobile app
Project Sea Far is tasked with monitoring
the Meraka Institute and the Modelling
called Fundza Platform. The app was used
the South African coastline and the fish-
and Digital Science (MDS). The aim of the
to analyse the 2014 final matric results
ing activities in its oceans. This includes
programme is to schedule recruits to par-
and to draw a link between the results and
both the local and international vessels
ticipate in mentor-guided problem solving
how the lack of infrastructure at schools
that traffic through South Africa’s Exclusive
presented by different stakeholders.
impacted the pass rate countrywide.
Economic Zone (EEZ).
Dhiren Seetharam, the DSIDE programme
Analysing the data obtained from the 2014
on vessels that frequent the oceans regu-
manager, says the focus of this initiative
matric results, the group found no distinct
larly, highlighting their activities and also
is to ensure that students learn by solving
relationship between infrastructure and the
their legitimacy.
The main objective of the project is centred
real problems the country is grappling with pass rate, but schools with adequate infralike analysing data on crime, looking at the structure usually performed better.
This project enables the relevant authori-
ongoing drought, illegal fishing, threats to
ties to understand fishing events and
security, and building maintenance.
Another significant app built through the
activities within maritime environment and
programme is Project Mati, which uses data
can be enhanced by the automatic identi-
A group of students – Macdonald
on the drought to assist the Department of
fication and classification of illegal fishing
Maringa, an Actuarial Science student
Water and Sanitation (DWS) to develop an
vessels activities.
24
Science Stars Magazine Astrophysics Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za
SCIENCE STARS BUILDING LEGENDS
Science Stars is supported by: • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
The Department of Science and Technology CSIR University of Stellenbosch UCT SANRAL Shanduka Foundation Old mutual NSFAS UJ Engen Scifest Africa Shanduka black umbrellas SAASTA TCTA
Science Stars is distributed to all 9 South African provinces by ELTINSEF.
021 839 2507 info@sciencestars.co.za www.sciencestars.co.za /sciencestars.faceb.co.za @ScienceStars2
CSIR
EXPLORING THE WORLD
OF DATA SCIENCE in just 5 minutes!
D
ata Science is the process of
with skills in machine learning, statistics
data coming from social media platforms
extracting insights or knowl-
and applied mathematics
such as Twitter or Facebook. An information
edge from data in multiple forms
• Visualisation and decision support:
board for the 2016 Municipal Elections for
(structured or unstructured). The multi-
Data scientists, information visualisation
the South African Broadcasting Corporation
disciplinary field has different stages which
specialists and graphic designers
(SABC) was also provided by the CSIR.
are often interlinked and require the appli-
• Deployment: Data engineers/developers
What to study:
cation of various skill sets. The skill sets range from collecting, storing and cleaning
A data scientist is a person who appreciates
large datasets to being able to build and
the whole pipeline of stages and tends to
deploy predictive models.
be a specialist in the analytical STEM field with a focus on machine learning, Statistics,
• Computer science • Statistics • Mathematics and applied mathematics • Engineering
With the rapid rise in internet use, as well
Applied Mathematics, Physics and so forth.
as the decrease in the cost of acquisition
Data scientists will also be computational,
and storage of data (personal, business or
spending a lot of time programming, creat-
science), the need to be able to analyse at
ing models and testing the predictions or
Dr Vukosi Marivate leads the Data Science
scale and in a timely manner has risen.
hypotheses they develop. An example proj-
team at CSIR Modelling and Digital
• Physics
ect includes identifying, in a large data set,
Science. The team consists of researchers,
Data Science is a multi-stage process with
a subset of data that might look different
data engineers, Masters and PhD students.
different expertise across the stages:
from the rest of the data. This will hopefully be the first in a series
• Data collection/storage: Data engineers/ database specialists
The Council for Scientific and Industrial
of articles on Data Science and some of its
• Data transformation: Data scientists
Research (CSIR) is working on research to
uses, as the study and the practical results
• Analysis and modelling: Data scientists
identify interesting events from streams of
become more established.
Quirk: A system developed by the CSIR to find and explain why data-points in a data set may be abnormal.
26
Data collected from Twitter regarding popular terms used during the 2017 State of the Nation Address (#SONA2017) and their frequency in fiveminute intervals.
Science Stars Magazine Astrophysics Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za
VOCABULARY
SPACE DECODED Learning about space and all that it’s made up of can be very difficult, especially if you confuse the terms often used. We’ve rounded up the must-know terms to help you understand the universe a little better, and hopefully end the confusion for good!
Comet
Asteroid
These fairly
Asteroids are
small solar system bod-
small solar system bodies
ies orbit around the sun. When
that also orbit the sun. Made
they come close enough to the
mostly of rock and metal, they can
sun they display a fuzzy outline or
also contain organic compounds.
Meteoroid
atmosphere due to solar radia-
Asteroids are similar to comets
A small rock or
tion and sometimes a tail,
but they do not have a
particle of debris in our
visible coma.
solar system, ranging in size
called a coma.
from dust to around 10m in diameter (larger objects are usually referred to as asteroids). Meteor A meteor is a meteoroid that burns up as it passes through the Earth’s atmosphere. If you’ve ever looked up at the sky at night and
Meteorite
seen a “shooting star” what you
A meteoroid that survives falling
actually saw was a meteor.
through the Earth’s atmosphere and colliding with its surface is called a meteorite.
Definitions Coma – The nebulous envelope around the nucleus of a comet. Solar radiation –The energy we get from the sun. Organic compounds – Compounds composed of atoms (some of which are carbon) held together by shared electoral bonds.
Debris - Loose natural material consisting mostly of broken rock pieces.
UNIVERSITIES
YOUR ROCKET INTO SPACE Where to study Astrophysics
U
niversities in South Africa boast a
should register for a BSc degree in the
variety of courses, but only a few
Mathematical Sciences stream. The relevant University of Johannesburg (UJ) The Faculty of Science at UJ prides itself in subjects within the M-stream are Physics,
offer Astrophysics. We compiled a
summary of these institutions so you can
Astronomy, and Applied Mathematics,
its vibrant, dynamic and diverse scientific
enter this field of study.
with electives in cognate subjects such as
community of scholars and lecturers. With
Computer Science, Statistics and Chemistry.
its 13 different departments, the faculty
University of Witwatersrand (Wits)
trains students in a range of scientific
This fixed curriculum programme includes
University of South Africa (UNISA)
fields.
subjects such as Physics, Computational
Astronomy can be divided into two branch-
Apply for your BSc degree, or email phys-
and Applied Mathematics, Algebra and
es of study: the modern (Astrophysical) and
ics@uj.ac.za to declare your interest in
Modern Astrophysics and Cosmology. The
the classical (Mathematical). Both fields
postgraduate studies.
2018 class is limited to 30 students.
are offered at Unisa at undergraduate and
University of Cape Town (UCT)
graduate level, and a major in Astronomy
University of Free State (UFS)
requires a curriculum including modules
The Department of Physics offers Honours,
The undergraduate major in Astrophysics at from both branches.
as well as MSc and PhD degrees in Physics.
UCT has been offered since 2006. In 2013,
Applicants for the BSc degree in each of these universities must meet the following
in Astronomical Techniques which com-
Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (NMMU)
bines a large practical component (radio
The general BSc degree equips students
• Mathematics at 70% or above
and optical astronomy) with a theoretical
with a basic understanding of Science.
• Physical Sciences at 60% or above
background in astronomical techniques,
Students may then choose to major in
• Where an applicant has not completed
instrumentation and data analysis.
several subjects within the broad cat-
Physical Sciences, Information Technology
egories of Physical Sciences, Biological
or Life Sciences may be doubled.
they introduced a second 2nd-year course
University of KwaZulu Natal (UKZN)
Sciences and Mathematical Sciences. The
Students interested in studying
degree can be completed in a minimum of
Astrophysics and Cosmology at UKZN
three years.
28
Science Stars Magazine Astrophysics Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za
subject requirements:
For more information on how and when to apply visit the institution’s website.
THALES
PATHWAYS TO SUCCESS START HERE Bursaries rewarded to Cape Town learners
L
earners and students from across Cape Town were honoured
Chest of the Western Cape. Six bursaries to the value of R100
at a bursary awards evening on 11 May 2017, which forms
000 each were awarded at the awards evening. The winners were
part of a massive 5-year skills development programme
from Malibu High School, Khanyolwethu High School, Joe Slovo
called “Fast Tracking Pathways to Success”, The initiative was
High School, Kleinvlei High School, Simizisele High School and
started by the Community Chest of the Western Cape and Thales
Forest Heights High School.
South Africa in 2014. As part of the project, worthy recipients from six participating schools are identified each year for the awarding of study bursaries in the fields of Mathematics, Science and Technology. The project also includes the donation of Mathematics and Science kits to the value of R60 000 per school in underprivileged communities in and around Cape Town, to facilitate learning in these subjects. “We are trying to achieve better education outcomes at these schools through running an extensive and long-term project over the course of five years,” says Lorenzo Davids, CEO at Community
Kleinvlei High School: Tootla, Faybian Arendse (2016), Keenan Loubser (2017), Davids
Forest Heights High School: Justice Tootla (Thales CEO), Cameron Corne Adams (2015), Hazelle Booysen (2016), Joshua Faro (2017), Lorenzo Davids (Community Chest of the Western Cape CEO)
Joe Slovo High School: Tootla, Liso Nyanda (2017), Wonke Mahlombe (2016), Davids
Science Stars Magazine Astrophysics Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za
29
APPLICATIONS
funding YOUR future
How to apply for bursaries and learnerships Canyon Coal
To qualify you need to be studying at a recognised tertiary institution in one of the fields mentioned below. Preference will be given to female students, those with disabilities and those from the Delmas and Middelburg regions. Fields of study (Bsc): • Analytical Chemistry • Geology • Electrical Engineering • Mechanical Engineering • Mine Survey How to apply: Download forms from www.canyoncoal.co.za or request the latest application form by emailing Nomfundo Mkhwebani at n.mkhwebani@canyoncoal.com (with the words “Bursary Application” in the email subject line). Closing date: 30 October annually
NUMSA
To qualify you need to be a dependant of a NUMSA member or staff member. Please note: no emailed or faxed applications will be considered. Fields of study: • B Education (majoring in Science and Mathematics) • B Com (majoring in Accounting, Financial Management and Auditing) • Bachelor of Laws (LLB) • BSc or BEng (Engineering diploma or degree: Chemical, Civil, Electrical, Industrial, Metallurgical, Mechanical) • Computer Science/ Information Technology • Biomedical Technology How to apply: Go to the website www.numsa.org.za and look under careers for the bursary application form. Completed form and all supporting documentation must be posted to: Mbuyi Ngwenda Bursary Fund, PO Box 787352, Sandton, 2146. Closing date: 30 September annually
Aurecon
Fields of study: • Civil Engineering • Mechanical Engineering • Electrical Engineering How to apply: Apply online at www.aurecongroup.com. For enquiries, email tshwane@aurecongroup.com or call 012 427 2000. Closing date: 30 June annually
Mpumalanga Provincial Government
To qualify you need to reside in the Mpumalanga province. Female students and those with disabilities are encouraged to apply. Preference will be given to students from previously disadvantaged backgrounds, as well as those from rural communities. Do not fax or email applications. Fields of study: • Architectural Science/ Technology • Building Science • BSc Construction Science • Quantity Surveyor • Land Surveying • Aviation Technician/ Inspector • Transport Economist • Transport Planning/ Engineering • Civil Engineering • Electrical Engineering • Mechanical Engineering • Water and Sanitation Engineering • Environmental Engineering How to apply: Download forms from www.mpumalanga.gov.za/education or collect a copy from a provincial government department (such as public libraries, Thusong Service Centres, Circuit and Districts offices). Completed application forms and supporting documents must be posted to: The Bursary Unit, Mpumalanga Department of Education, Private Bag X 11341, Nelspruit, 1200, or delivered to: The Department of Education (Provincial Office), Riverside Government, Complex Building, 5 Upper Ground Floor, Nelspruit, 1200 Closing date: 30 September annually
Science Stars Magazine Astrophysics Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za
31
DST
GRASSROOTS INNOVATION
Empowering local communities By : Zama Mthethwa
Nkosana explains that he started making the bikes about five years ago as a mode of transport for himself when people started showing an interest. Eventually, so many people were asking about his bike that he recognised it as a business opportunity. The Grassroots Innovation Programme gave Nkosana the opportunity to attend the Festival of Innovation in India, which is an initiative of the Office of the President of India, in March this year. Reflecting on his participation in the festival, Nkosana said networking was an important step for innovators. He built many new relationships with other innovators and is certain that his invention is going to the next level in terms of development and retailing.
T
urning ideas into new products
who operate outside formal institutions.
and services often requires system-
The programme nurtures the individuals,
Another innovator supported by the
atic support from government or
helping them to develop their innovations
Grassroots Innovation Programme is
businesses – in the form of programmes
from ideas to businesses, and linking them
Melusi Ntuli, from Pietermaritzburg, who
for promoting links between innovators
with industry experts and facilities where
developed a chargeless electric engine.
and research and development institu-
their inventions can be developed towards
His innovation started with a sketch and
tions, innovation hubs and incubators,
a commercial model.
went on to include research carried out with support from professors at the Durban
and investors. One such support system is the Grassroots Innovation Programme
In 2016/17, DST channelled R2 million
University of Technology and the University
funded by the Department of Science and
towards supporting innovators and tech-
of KwaZulu-Natal. He was advised to make
Technology (DST).
nology entrepreneurs in the informal sector
a demonstration model of his Power Self
and marginalised communities. One of the
Direct Current motor, which is the main
Implemented by the Council for Scientific
innovators supported by the programme
component of his chargeless engine.
and Industrial Research (CSIR), the pro-
is Nkosana Madi, from KwaThema, Springs,
gramme seeks to identify, document and
who developed an inexpensive hybrid
It is anticipated that the Grassroots
offer appropriate assistance to grassroots
motorised bicycle which speeds up the
Innovation Programme will build and
innovators and inventors, especially those
long commute to work faced by many
strengthen innovation skills and expertise
with no academic background and those
poorer communities.
in many fields.
32
Science Stars Magazine Astrophysics Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za
QUIZ
QUIZ TIME How many answers do you know?
1
Which company recently unveiled a plan to launch thousands of internet-providing satellites by 2019? A. Tesla
6
How many new intelligence genes were discovered? A. 40 B. 50
B. Space X
C. 52
C. NASA
D. 37
D. Amazon
2
What is the distance from earth to the new planet discovered outside our solar system? A. 320 light years
A. Sulphur B. Nitrogen
B. 300 light years
C. Carbon dioxide
C. 80 light years
D. Hydrogen
D. 2 light years
3
7
The comet which led to the discovery of dinosaurs injected which substance into the atmosphere?
What is the name of the dwarf planet in our solar system around which a new moon was discovered?
8
A historic feature on Mount Everest collapsed. What is its name? A. The last frontier
A. 2007 OR10
B. The final step
B. Sakacia
C. Tenzin step
C. 2002 MS4
D. Hilary step
D. Quaoa
4
What is the name of the storage facility designed to preserve the world’s crop from future disaster? A. Noah’s Vault B. Apocalypse Vault C. Global Seed Vault D. Food Vault
5
What is the name of the largest aircraft which successfully completed its test flight? A. Airbender 10 B. Aircraft 10 C. Airmaster 10 D. Airlander 10
Science Stars Magazine Astrophysics Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za
33
PUZZLES
SUDUKO Developing your problem-solving skills has never been more fun!
6 1 8
3 9
3
7 2 5
5
3
4
9 2 7
7
5
6 7
6
1 9
1
WORD SEARCH How many of the listed words can you find?
34
O
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M
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Z
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X
A
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T
A
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P
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• Astrophysic
Z
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• Astronomy
X
Q
T
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• Stars
G
A
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F
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T
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• Physics
A
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• Chemistry
L
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• Mechanics
Y
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• Galaxy
X
O M
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• Planets
A
N
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L
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Z
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I
• Evolution
L
O
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M
A
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• Matter
A
C
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• Blackhole
G
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• Time travel
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Science Stars Magazine Astrophysics Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za
ANSWERS
ANSWERS Tour de Science Issue
SUDUKO
Special Edition | April 2017
TOUR DE SCIENCE
6 3 7
1 4 8
2 5 9
7 8 4
9 1 6
3 2 5
8 9 1
5 6 3
4 7 2
9 8 4
3 5 2
1 6 7
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2 4 5
8 7 9
6 3 1
5 1 2
6 7 9
4 3 8
1 2 3
8 5 4
7 9 6
3 6 7
2 4 1
9 8 5
WORDSEARCH
QUIZ 1. A - Microbiologist 2. D - Customer data manage-
S
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ment 3. C - Respiratory therapist
I
4. D - All of the above
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5. B - Be captain of a space
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shuttle
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6. B - Power plant operator
C
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7. B - Design an artificial heart
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8. C - Chemical technician
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Science Stars Magazine Astrophysics Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za
35
SCIENCE NEWS
THE LATEST IN SCIENCE The revamped Iziko Planetarium and Digital Dome in Cape Town reopened its doors to the public on 27 May. New features include perspective-3D edutainment and an experience unlike anything you have ever encountered. As the first image is released from MeerKAT in the Karoo, the SKA project engages with communities living near to the telescope to help understand this scientific marvel. NASA’s Juno spacecraft swooped within 5 000km of Jupiter’s cloud tops in August last year, giving scientists their first intimate look at the gas giant. The data reveals surprising details about Jupiter’s gravity, powerful magnetic field and ammonia-rich weather system. The findings suggest researchers may not only need to revamp their view of Jupiter but also their ideas about how planetary systems form and evolve.
36
The South African Astronomical Observatory (SAAO) has concluded the naming competition for its new 1m telescope; a recent addition to the many national and international telescopes on our observing plateau near Sutherland in the Northern Cape. Its name is Lesedi. Lehlogonolo Msuma is representing South Africa at the Broadcom Masters (Math, Applied Science, Technology and Engineering for Rising Stars) International programme in the US for her research in marula seedlings. Life at Sigidisabathembu Primary School at Ilenge-Majuqule village near Harrysmith in KwaZulu-Natal will never be the same, following the handover of a high-tech computer laboratory that is set to improve teaching and learning at the school. FameLab SA 2017 winner, Tshiamo Legoale flanked by her mother and sister will represent SA at the FameLab Global competition.
Science Stars Magazine Astrophysics Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za
DST
LOCAL LABS INSPIRE YOUNG LEARNERS Sutherland to pursue careers in Science
H
Tommy Makhode from DST at Roggeveld Primary School
undreds of learners in Sutherland,
last year. The Minister promised to assist
With the province being home to the
Northern Cape, will now have
the community with learning equipment to
world’s largest optical telescope, the
access to practical science lessons
improve the learning standards, thus inspire Southern African Largest Telescope and
following the handover of mobile of labo-
young people to pursue careers in science,
the Square Kilometre Array radio telescope,
ratories to two schools in the area.
engineering and technology.
Makhode said there is a growing need to
Two mobile science labs donated by the
Speaking on behalf of Minister Pandor
learners in the area to actively partici-
Department of Science and Technology
at the handover ceremony, DST’s Deputy
pate in science which should contribute
(DST) to Roggeveld Intermediate School
Director-General for Institutional Planning
positively to the country’s quest to develop
and Sutherland High School, will provide
and Support, Tommy Makhode, said learners future astronomers.
hands-on activities and experiences to
should learn science by touching and doing.
learners who never had access to such
“This will drive out the perception that sci-
Neville van Wyk, the principal of Roggeveld
facilities before. The labs are equipped
ence is foreign and inaccessible,” he said.
Intermediate School, welcomed the dona-
enhance the academic environment for
with science apparatus and chemicals to
tion saying it would encourage learners
enable teachers and learners to conduct
Makhode added that the donation of these
prescribed school experiments.
portable labs should be seen as an effort to have been striving to improve the quality
to take their studies very seriously. “We
cement the journey of local children from a
of education in the area, especially maths
The schools received the equipment fol-
strong knowledge of STEM at a young age
and science. As such the laboratory will
lowing a visit to the area by the Minister
and eventually to start work as scientists at
enable the province to move forward and
of Science and Technology, Naledi Pandor
the province’s astronomy facilities.
be advanced”, said van Wyk.
Science Stars Magazine Astrophysics Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za
37
EXPERIMENT
experiment
MAKE A BALLOON ROCKET You will need • • • •
A balloon (a round one will work, but the longer “airship” balloons work best) A piece of 3m-long kite string Plastic straw Tape
What to do • • • •
Tie one end of the string to a chair, door knob, or other support. Put the other end of the string through the straw. Pull the string tight and tie it to another sturdy object in the room. Blow up the balloon (but don’t tie it). Pinch the end of the balloon and tape the balloon to the straw as shown in the illustration.
ready to launch • •
Let go and watch the rocket fly! Make your own observations about how the rockets works before reading the explanation below.
What we know It’s all about the air… and thrust. As the air rushes out of the balloon, it creates a forward motion called thrust. In this experiment, our thrust comes from the energy of the balloon forcing the air out. In a real rocket, thrust is created by the force of burning rocket fuel as it blasts from the rocket’s engine – as the engine blasts down, the rocket goes up! Visit www.sciencebob.com for more cool experiments to try.
38
Science Stars Magazine Astrophysics Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za
Cut out and place on your wall for easy reference
DRAFTFCB CAPE TOWN 10003863CT/E
Mzansi For Science
Scientists, Technologists and Innovators are just like you. They’re curious. They ask questions. They try new things. The desire to try new things has been inside you from the very beginning.
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