Optical demonstrations through science fairs

The New England Section of the Optical Society of America (NES/OSA), founded in 1949, provides programming for the promotion of science and optics education. In recent years, the NES/OSA has combined funding to provide demonstrations during the Massachusetts Science Fairs for Middle and High School age groups and award prizes to the winners. This funding is supplied from the Section's operating budget, along with grants from the Optical Society of America (OSA). NES/OSA attends two annual science fairs comprised of the statewide finalists from 6 regional competitions. During these fairs, NES/OSA members conduct optics demonstrations using the Section's "Optics Suitcases". This talk will outline the NES/OSA's outreach program, some of the demonstrations and results.