Science Forum (Forum Departmental Des Sciences)

The Science Forum (commonly known as Forum départemental des sciences de Villeneuve-d'Ascq by locals) is a museum dedicated to broadcasting the scientific and technical culture located in eastern Lille. It has a very specific, hands-on approach that strongly encourages visitors to make their own scientific experiments in order to fully grasp the power and extent of science in the most whimsical ways possible. The newest exhibition, which will be hosted until March 2016, focuses on nighttime; what happens after nightfall, as far as biology, astronomy, neurology and anthropology are concerned? What does a naturally dark sky looks like, away from the city’s bright lights? How does sleep actually work? On the other side of the museum is Enigma, a vast room where visitors get to become a detective for a couple of hours, questioning the scientific aspect of various situations, and ultimately coming up with several plausible answers. How does a magician escape jail? How could we live in a world without fuel? And although the museum’s exhibitions are clearly directed at children, they will also be very interesting for parents eager to learn about the world’s greatest scientific discoveries.

Practical Info

The Science Forum is located on Place de l'Hôtel de ville in Villeneuve d’Ascq, in the eastern suburbs of Lille. It is within walking distance from the Villeneuve d’Ascq – Hôtel de ville metro station. It is open from Tuesday to Friday between 9AM and 5:30PM, and on the weekends and bank holidays from 2 to 6:30PM. Entry costs €4 per adult and is free for children under 18 years of age.