Science communication & Community

European Gravitational Observatory – VIRGO

I began collaborating with the outreach department of the European Gravitational Observatory (EGO), contributing to initiatives connected to the Virgo gravitational-wave detector.

I have supported a wide range of activities:

  • guiding high school groups from Italy and abroad through the world of VIRGO and gravitational-wave research;
  • welcoming children during our Open Day with tailored, hands-on activities;
  • contributing to Bright Night – the European Researchers’ Night, bringing science closer to the public through demonstrations and talks;
  • leading remote guided tours as part of the PICO (Physics for All) outreach program;
  • and assisting with gadget fundraising initiatives to help sustain and expand our outreach efforts.
Part of the EGO-Virgo outreach group at the Bright Night 2024 in Pisa, the European Night of Researchers edition held in Pisa.
Part of our outreach group at my first Bright Night in Pisa, the Tuscan edition of the European Researchers’ Night
campaign, back in 2024.
Participants (in white) and Organizing Committee (in black) of Lights of Tuscany 2025 edition,  in front of National Research Center of Optics (CNR-INO) site in Pisa.
Our students in front of National Research Center of Optics (CNR-INO) site in Pisa

Lights of Tuscany is an annual international physics event organized by the Associazione Italiana Studenti di Fisica (AISF) to coincide with the International Day of Light.
Set in Pisa and Florence, it brings together students, researchers, and professionals from all over Europe to discuss optical and matter physics topics, showcasing research from local research centers of excellence, through laboratory visits and lectures.

I learned and grew behind the scenes of this event. It was my first time working as a secretary:

  • securing sponsorships,
  • supporting our communication efforts and editorial line,
  • drafting project proposals and budjeting,
  • and setting deadlines for every member of our small but incredible team.