Expoacre 2026 Highlights Public Engagement in Science and Technology with IFAC and Youth Rocket Competition

At Expoacre 2026, the Instituto Federal do Acre (IFAC) captivated visitors with interactive science experiments and robotics demonstrations, showcasing projects in Physics, Astronomy, Engineering, and Robotics. Held at the Espaço Hub of the Secretaria de Estado de Indústria, Ciência e Tecnologia, the event aimed to popularize science and underscore its relevance to Acre's technological and social development. Professor Carla Villas-Boas emphasized the goal of sparking curiosity from childhood, highlighting activities including physics experiments, math games, and a dedicated children's area.

The event coincided with the conclusion of the National Robotics Showcase in Acre, featuring state-level competitions as part of the Brazilian Robotics Olympiad (OBR). Professor Felipe Viana noted the importance of making science relatable by demonstrating how physics, chemistry, and engineering impact daily life. Visitors also experienced advanced technologies such as 3D printers and virtual reality glasses.

Meanwhile, in Rio de Janeiro, the Jornada de Foguetes 2026 gathered 18 student teams from across Brazil for a national rocketry competition. Organized by the Sociedade Astronômica Brasileira and Agência Espacial Brasileira, the event promotes scientific knowledge through practical rocket building and launching activities. Students from public and private schools participated in workshops and lectures, enhancing skills in engineering, physics, mathematics, and communication under the guidance of coordinator João Batista Garcia Canalle.

These initiatives reflect Brazil's broader commitment to science education and public engagement, uniting technological innovation with hands-on learning to inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers.