More than 2,100 visitors from ten countries visited the temporary Einstein Telescope exhibition at FacThory on Thor Park last autumn. The exhibition, which ran from October 2 to December 18, featured 48 events offering an in-depth introduction to the Einstein Telescope and its significance for the region. On the initiative of the city of Genk, the exhibition also opened its doors to the general public, giving entrepreneurs, students, and other curious visitors the opportunity to experience the impact of this prestigious project up close.
The Einstein Telescope, an underground detector for gravitational waves, is considered one of the most ambitious scientific projects of our time. Visitors learned about the technological and scientific highlights of the project as well as the benefits it brings to Limburg, including opportunities for innovation, employment, and international collaboration.
A key role for Limburg
“The Einstein Telescope opens doors to unprecedented possibilities,” says Tom Vandeput, Deputy for Economy and Chairman of POM Limburg. “This project will lead to scientific breakthroughs but also creates opportunities for our manufacturing industry, high-tech sector, and STEM education programs. This exhibition has made it clear how Limburg can play a pivotal role in this European initiative.”
Diverse audience
The exhibition attracted a wide variety of visitors through events such as ‘Doing Business on a Cosmic Scale,’ where sixty companies explored business opportunities, and the Day of Science, which drew 260 attendees. Other highlights included the VOKA Export Limburg Awards and the Sirris Made Real Event, with nearly 150 participants combined. Students and teachers also found inspiration, with a special focus on a teachers’ day about gravitational waves.
Role of Flanders
The exhibition laid a strong foundation for future collaborations. “The positive feedback from this event confirms that groundbreaking scientific research and economic progress can reinforce each other,” concludes Vandeput. “The success of this initiative highlights Limburg’s potential as a driving force for innovation.”
