Tonight: Night of Research on the Balearic Islands – Labs, Ships, and Short Talks

Evening Tours Through Labs and On Deck: The Night of Research Is Back

As it cools down around 6 p.m. and the streetlights in Palma begin to glow, small science events kick off in many places across the Balearic Islands. The so-called 'Night of Research' brings researchers from laboratories, universities, and institutes into contact with curious people — students, families, retirees with questions, and teenagers who want to know how to properly smell marine samples (yes, that happens).

What you can expect

The program includes short talks, lab tours, and, with a bit of luck, a glimpse of a research vessel in Palma's harbor. In some institutes, equipment is turned on that normally only professionals see, and marine biologists talk about jellyfish, plastic, and the temperature at the seabed. Many activities are free; some require registration — especially for tours in tight spaces or when only a few seats are available.

A few practical notes: Bring sturdy footwear for tours, a light windbreaker for short harbor stays, and plan a bit of time — some stations are popular and lines form. If you're coming with children: there are always workshops with experiments that are not only loud but really hands-on.

Our tips for a good evening

Start early: Many events begin in the early evening, between 6 and 7 p.m. If you are in Palma, you can stroll along the Passeig Marítim before or after a tour — a cafe with a view of the water never hurts. If you need to register, check the time carefully: some short talks last only 20–30 minutes. And yes, bring your smartphone — but please be respectful: some measuring devices react to foreign phone signals.

The Night of Research is not a dry conference, but a small island journey through questions: Why are the Posidonia meadows important? How do scientists test seawater? What technologies are being developed here? For the curious, it’s an evening where you can hear, see, and sometimes even smell answers.

For exact times and the schedule: You can find the event overview on the official Balearic pages — there you will find locations, start times, and registration notes. Have fun exploring — and bring a friend who always has too many questions. She will be welcome here.