Night of Research on the Balearic Islands: Researchers Open Lab Doors and Ships

Night of Research Returns: Experiments, Ship Visits, and Short Talks

When darkness falls over Palma and the coastal towns this coming Friday, more light will illuminate many places than usual — in the lab, at the port, in small institutes. The Balearic Islands are once again participating in the European Researchers' Night, the Night of Research, which takes place in hundreds of cities across Europe. The aim: to make science approachable, spark curiosity, and show what researchers here on the island are actually doing.

What you can expect

The program includes tours of research facilities, short scientific talks in a 10–20 minute format, live demos, and sometimes even small experiments for children. In Palma this year there are again sea-related offerings: visitors can tour a research ship or take a behind-the-scenes look at the oceanographic institute. On site, scientists explain how measurement data is produced — and why it is so important for the island.

Many events start in the late afternoon and extend into the evening. Time windows usually run from roughly 5 p.m. to 11 p.m., sometimes with several sessions per program item. Some activities are free, others require registration — seats are often limited, so it pays to reserve early.

For families, the curious, and tech fans

The night is intentionally accessible: there are introductions for children, short talks for interested laypeople, and stationary presentations for professionals. At several locations you will see measuring instruments, scuba robots, or satellite-based maps. I recommend packing sturdy shoes in case you climb aboard a ship, and a light jacket — the wind at the harbor can feel chilly in the evening.

Practical tip: If you plan to hop between several program points, check start times carefully and plan routes between locations. The program is published centrally — you can find information and the signup option on the official site of the Balearic Government for the Night of Research.

It is this mix of curiosity, hands-on experience, and a behind-the-scenes look that makes the evening enjoyable. A piece of science you can touch — and which you can experience in Palma during an evening stroll along Passeig Marítim.