COSMIC EXPLORERS: THE MYSTERY OF ISLANOR

A journey through literature, planetary science, secret codes, magical birds and solar observation

On 27 March 2026, the Museu de les Ciències will host Cosmic Explorers: The Mystery of Islanor, a science communication event that brings together literary storytelling, real science and outreach. The activity is open to the general public and is particularly aimed at pupils in Years 4, 5 and 6 of primary education, with the goal of showing how a story can become a gateway to scientific thinking.

A meeting point between literature and planetary science

The session will feature Jorge Pla-García, a planetary science researcher at the Centro de Astrobiología (CAB, CSIC–INTA) and the Space Science Institute. He is part of scientific teams studying the weather and atmosphere of Mars on three NASA missions: Curiosity (REMS), InSight (TWINS) and Perseverance/Mars 2020 (MEDA), and he has also worked for several years on ESA’s ExoMars mission (RLS instrument).

Alongside him, Sonia Barbero Verdeguer, known by her pen name Nancy Seven, will also take part. She is an author and science communicator with more than 20 years of experience in astronomy. She is the founder of Cuentaciencia and develops projects that combine literature, real science and hands-on experience to foster scientific vocations from an early age.

Literature, space exploration and scientific thinking

Through the presentation of the book El misterio de Islanor, the event will delve into how literary storytelling can be used as a tool to introduce pupils to the scientific method.

The session will also address current planetary research and the work of scientists involved in international projects linked to the exploration of Mars, bringing science closer to both school audiences and the general public.

Hands-on experience: communication, nature and solar observation

The programme also includes a practical component focused on communication and scientific observation. Students will explore Morse code, learning how to decode and transmit messages using light and sound, with simple tools such as torches or whistles.

The event will also feature the Magic Eagle project, an initiative dedicated to environmental education and bird-assisted therapy that works with schools and people with disabilities. Two therapy birds of prey will be present during the session to encourage reflection on respect for nature and conservation.

Finally, weather permitting, students will take part in a live solar observation using telescopes, experiencing astronomy first-hand.

Programme

Information: 

• Date: 27 March 2026
• Time: 10:15 am
• Venue: Auditorio Santiago Grisolía, Museu de les Ciències
• Free admission until full capacity is reached (capacity previously arranged with schools).
• Access: West entrance, Carrer Menor, Museu de les Ciències