On April 12 and 13, the Zeiss Großplanetarium in Berlin celebrated the 400th anniversary of the microscope with themed days titled "Invisible Worlds: From Microcosm to Universe." GerBI provided hands-on microscopy experiences for visitors.

Fourteen GerBI members joined the event, alongside the German Ocean Foundation, the Society for Microscopy Berlin, and the "Gläsernes Labor," to introduce visitors to the fascinating world of the microcosm.

Zeiss generously provided the microscopes used at the event. The live and self-prepared samples, especially our tardigrades, captivated both children and adults. They sparked great fascination and curiosity.

The experience extended beyond the microscope stations. Inside the dome, talks on the history of microscopy were held, with real-time sample images projected onto the planetarium ceiling. A special highlight: one of our tardigrades, shown in stunning detail, appeared to walk across the entire dome.

This was the first time such an event took place in the planetarium, but there is already talk of making it an annual tradition. It was great to see how inspired all were. Some were even considering getting a microscope for their own home.