Dr Karl to answer big questions at CDU Open Day

Renowned scientist, author and broadcaster Dr Karl Kruszelnicki is set to attend Charles Darwin University (CDU) Open Day, giving future students the opportunity to have their questions answered by one of Australia’s most recognisable science communicators.

Held on August 8 from 10am-4pm, Casuarina Campus’ Open Day is an opportunity to explore career opportunities, connect with future peers, and meet the academics shaping the University experience.

While Dr Karl won’t be leading lectures, he hopes his presence at Open Day and personal interest in the Northern Territory will inspire the next generation of Top End scholars.

Having previously travelled across the Northern Territory testing 4WD vehicles with his family. Dr Karl said the Territory’s unique environment is home to a range of fascinating scientific phenomena.

“After speaking to a Darwin local during one of my visits, he asked what brought me to town, and I told him I was hoping to see the green flash,” Dr Karl said.

"It’s a rare optic phenomenon that can be seen in the last few seconds of Darwin’s sunsets.

“As the sun dips below the horizon it turns into a red ball. When the sun vanishes below the horizon you might see a green flash because the light from the sun has to travel through increasingly greater thickness of air and it can appear as a vivid emerald spot on the horizon.”

Dr Karl said studying at CDU offers opportunities to experience science beyond the classroom, from tropical ecosystems to unique wildlife to atmospheric phenomena rarely seen elsewhere in Australia.

CDU Interim Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Fiona Coulson said that Open Day is more than just a chance to visit the campus, students can experience their future careers and meet the people in the top of their field.

"Having Dr Karl join us at Open Day is a fantastic opportunity for prospective students to engage with one of Australia's most respected science communicators," Professor Coulson said.

"Whether visitors are considering a career in health, engineering, education, business or science, Open Day is an opportunity to explore their future and experience the unique learning environment CDU offers.

"Studying in the Northern Territory provides experiences and opportunities that simply can't be replicated elsewhere, and we're excited to showcase that to future students and their families." 

Prospective students and community members are encouraged to submit a question for Dr Karl ahead of Open Day and attend the event to hear his answers in person.  Visit Casuarina Open Day | Charles Darwin University