IEEE-NPSS Student Chapter, Simón Bolívar University

Founded in 2024, the IEEE-NPSS Student Chapter at Simón Bolívar University (Barranquilla, Colombia) serves as a cornerstone for students pursuing excellence in nuclear, plasma, and radiological sciences. Rooted in a tradition of academic rigor and professional engagement, the chapter includes over 12 active members, regularly hosting technical seminars, outreach events, and networking opportunities with alumni and industry leaders.

At the IEEE-NPSS Student Chapter at Simón Bolívar University, we believe that science is also experienced in stages, and that is why we develop our activities in thematic seasons. One of the most significant to date has been the Astronomy and Plasma in Space Season, an educational and recreational experience designed to introduce our members to space phenomena and their connections to plasma science and nuclear physics.

This season consisted of three main events that combined scientific outreach, social interaction, and practical knowledge exploration.

1. Introductory Roundtable: Revolving Between Knowledge

The season began with an outdoor roundtable discussion at the observation deck of our university’s campus. This inaugural event was designed to foster the exchange of ideas in a dynamic and accessible manner. Each student in the chapter was assigned a topic (such as “Plasma in the Sun” or “Planetary Magnetospheres”), and a virtual roulette wheel was used to select the participants.

The dynamic consisted of a brief introduction to the assigned topic and a question directed at the audience to generate interaction. It was an enriching day celebrating IEEE Education Week, where knowledge and fun intertwined naturally. Amid laughter, snacks, and collective enthusiasm, participants not only learned but also strengthened the bonds that define the spirit of our chapter: community, curiosity, and commitment.

2. Cinema at your University – First Edition

The second event of the season had a more recreational, but equally educational, focus. In collaboration with the IEEE WIE (Women in Engineering) Unisimón student group, we organized the first edition of “Cinema at your University.” We set up a booth on campus to raise awareness of both NPSS and WIE, inviting students to a space for discussion about science and showcasing how being part of IEEE can also be a fun experience.

The event included an introductory talk, information about membership and chapter benefits, and the screening of a film with scientific content in a university classroom. We accompanied the activity with a snack that strengthened the camaraderie. This activity attracted new stakeholders and made it clear that learning can also be an entertaining experience.

3. Visit to the Combarranquilla Planetarium

The closing event was, without a doubt, the most anticipated: a visit to the Combarranquilla Planetarium, held on May 29th. This outing was planned in direct response to the enthusiasm of our members, who wanted to experience real astronomy outside of the university setting.

We met directly at the planetarium, where we enjoyed guided presentations, observed astronomical objects, and interacted with exhibits. It was a valuable opportunity to consolidate knowledge, share reflections, and marvel at the universe from a local perspective.

A season to remember… and repeat

The Astronomy and Plasma in Space Season was much more than a series of events: it was a collective experience that united science, curiosity, and active participation. It showed us that, even with limited resources, enthusiasm and planning can create transformative experiences.

From the IEEE-NPSS Chapter at Simón Bolívar University, we will continue to promote thematic seasons that bring students closer to knowledge, foster multidisciplinary interaction, and strengthen our technical and human community, because we believe that the future of science is also built on creativity, closeness, and passion.

Jimmy Garcia Leal can be reached by E-mail at [email protected]