Record-breaking attendance at the Long Night of the Sciences
In the spotlight: Resilient democracies, the role of artificial intelligence, and the environment's impact on the brain
"Electrifying" – that’s how both staff and visitors described the atmosphere at the Long Night of Science on June 28. With 950 attendees, the Institute experienced a true influx of guests. It was particularly remarkable how open and curious visitors were towards science. A look back at a thrilling event that left a lasting impression.
To celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Long Night of the Sciences, visitors enjoyed a diverse program of lectures, exhibitions, hands-on activities, and guided tours. The focus was on pressing social issues, for example: How can democracies become more resilient in the face of populism, polarization, and manipulation? In his lecture, Director Ralph Hertwig demonstrated how behavioral science can strengthen democratic structures. Workshops on misinformation and digital manipulation complemented his talk. Visitors learned to recognize manipulation tactics and critically evaluate information. Another workshop examined the role of digital public spaces for democracy.
Artificial intelligence: between fascination, responsibility, and artistic vision.
Artificial intelligence was an omnipresent topic. Examples include the Moral Machine experiment on self-driving cars, the competition between humans and AI in recognizing emotions, and a presentation on how ChatGPT is changing our language use. These topics prompted reflection on key questions: How much responsibility should we give machines? How is AI changing our culture?
The interplay between art and AI was a particularly exciting focus. Director Iyad Rahwan introduced the concept of machine culture—a culture created or mediated by intelligent machines. A special highlight was the guided tours of the Reinventing Lost History exhibition by artist-in-residence Nora Al-Badri. Using AI-generated art, Al-Badri reconstructs lost cultural heritage and questions established historical narratives. Another impressive piece was Levin Brinkmann’s installation Haunting H1. It tells the story of an AI with consciousness that views humanity as a threat to Earth's balance. Visitors themselves became part of the interactive future scenario.
Late in the evening, numerous visitors enjoyed the discussion Between Code and Consciousness amid pleasant temperatures and a relaxed atmosphere on the terrace. The discussion focused on fundamental questions of human existence: Are AI systems truly intelligent, or are they merely simulating intelligence? How does our self-image change when we attribute human characteristics to machines?
Environment & the brain: how our surroundings shape us
The theme of humans caught between individual development and the environment ran through numerous program items. Director Simone Kühn introduced the emerging field of environmental neuroscience and demonstrated how urban and rural environments influence neural structures and well-being. A sensory highlight was the virtual forest bathing experience, which allowed visitors to experience the calming atmosphere of a forest with all their senses, including authentic sounds and scents, using virtual reality. This demonstrated what the research suggests: nature is good for you.
At the newly opened Babylab, parents learned about how babies and toddlers perceive their natural environment and the influence of certain environmental factors on early childhood development. Guided tours explained the methods researchers use to visualize processes difficult to study before language acquisition.
Hands-on psychological research
Psychological research was also brought to life in an entertaining and vivid way at the Long Night. In the Ice Cold Hands experiment, visitors could immerse themselves in the research by putting their hands in ice-cold water. The Cold Pressor Test, a proven method for investigating stress reactions, provided interesting insights and cooling relief on this hot summer evening.
The Neural Networks interactive stand was both playful and educational. Using colorful pipe cleaners, visitors of all ages built models of nerve cells and learned what dendrites, axons, and cell bodies are.
At another interactive station, visitors experienced how gentle electrical impulses stimulate the vagus nerve, as evidenced by changes in pupil size. Researchers explained how this method reduces stress and promotes well-being. There were targeted activities for children, such as mental exercises, hand-strength tests, and acoustic stimuli. These activities provided a clear, age-appropriate understanding of the connection between the body and mind and the role of modern neuroscience in improving our understanding of it. Director Ulman Lindenberger told visitors more about the connection between education and cognitive development.
A look behind-the-scenes: guided tours of laboratories and buildings
A special attraction of the Long Night is the opportunity to see everyday research in action. Technology enthusiasts took the opportunity to talk to technicians and IT specialists, learning what it means to maintain state-of-the-art laboratory infrastructure. The MR Physics group provided insights into their work during tours of the MRI laboratory. Employees explained the physics principles behind the high-resolution imaging of a 3-Tesla magnetic resonance tomograph and demonstrated how this technology produces precise images of the brain.
Guided tours of the Institute's historic building, library, and garden allowed visitors to experience the unique architecture and atmosphere.
Project to secure critical infrastructure: mobility as energy storage
A particularly forward-looking project awaited visitors at the edge of the event. In collaboration with the Mobility2Grid research campus, BVG, and Siemens Energy, the Max Planck Institute for Human Development is testing the use of electric vehicles as mobile emergency power sources during power outages. This model project demonstrates how scientific findings can be translated into solutions for societal challenges. In this case, the solution is supplying energy to hospitals or data centers in times of crisis.
Children discover science
The younger generation was not left out, either. Over 60 children participated in an exciting children's rally that led them through the Institute. At interactive stations, the children could collect stamps and complete small tasks such as engaging the robot Furhat in conversation, building neural networks, and observing the 3D printer. "We were thrilled. Great program! It's also great that there is so much for children. Thank you to all the staff! Keep up the good work!" one family commented.
An anniversary year of superlatives!
Berlin celebrated a quarter of a century of hands-on science with the Long Night of the Sciences. Around 50 scientific institutions took part in the event. Over 36,000 people flocked to laboratories, lecture halls, and research institutes. This was a 20 percent increase in visitors compared to the previous year.
The Max Planck Institute for Human Development also enjoyed record visitor numbers. Nine hundred and fifty guests streamed through the Institute's historic buildings. More than 130 employees gave presentations, led tours, conducted experiments, and conversed with visitors until late in the evening. The feedback was overwhelmingly positive:
"I really enjoyed it. The people were so enthusiastic—that makes you even more motivated to listen attentively and with interest." The 2025 Long Night of the Sciences clearly demonstrated that science is societally relevant and gains significance precisely when it is open and accessible to the public.
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