Christophe Daussy, a researcher at the Laser Physics Laboratory and close collaborator of the DIM QuanTiP, has been honored by the French Society of Physics for his dedication to the dissemination of scientific knowledge.
In a corridor on the ground floor of the Sorbonne Paris Nord University, there are two very surprising rooms. In the first, there are many objects, some more worn than others. A few lie in a corner of the room, requiring some searching to find them, while others are meticulously classified on shelves with countless drawers. In the second room, it is as if a whole host of scientific experiments have been stored in one place. On large wooden tables, they are lined up perfectly one behind the other: a Paul’s trap, a laser fountain, a mirascope. So many treasures in such a small space. At the heart of the University, it’s like a breath of fresh air between two classrooms. It’s a laboratory where we create, where we share, where imagination has a place. It’s the stage for a unique show. It’s Atouts Sciences.
Ten years ago, Christophe Daussy founded Atouts Sciences, an association dedicated to democratizing science, whose goal is to convey a passion for physics with enthusiasm and kindness. Today, the French Physics Society has awarded him the Jean Perrin Prize for developing and implementing several outreach initiatives, starting with the creation of a MOOC accessible to high school students, which aims to introduce them to the riches of physics through a clever mix of science, pop culture references, and everyday applications.
Atouts Science is also expanding with the introduction of an educational kit, the Lightbox Kit, which the DIM QuanTiP has had the opportunity to use on numerous occasions. For several years now, this kit has enabled users to discover the properties of light through experimentation: diffraction, color synthesis, reflection, human imaging, fiber optics, and more.
The Lightbox project has been made available outside France to thousands of students, who have been able to manipulate and experiment with light. There are also 450 kits in circulation around the world.
In addition to physical optics experiments, students and teachers are encouraged to develop their own experiments, to create and fuel their scientific curiosity. The kit provides a gateway into the mysterious world of physics and stimulates the imagination of young and old alike, encouraging them to design interdisciplinary and original scientific projects.
The DIM QuanTiP congratulates Christophe for his commitment to the dissemination of knowledge and warmly thanks him for his support over the last few years in our outreach projects. Without a doubt, the challenges ahead will be overcome thanks to his good humor and unfailing kindness.