HELMHOLTZ UPDATE / March 2017 - Helmholtz - Association of German Research Centres

HELMHOLTZ UPDATE / March 2017

Dear readers

Scientific facts represent the foundation of our discourse in society and cannot be negotiated. This is why people from around the world are participating in the March for Science on April 22. Helmholtz President Otmar D. Wiestler explains why he supports the movement.

A look into Space! ESA has successfully launched its Earth observation satellite Sentinel-2B as part of the Copernicus project. Find out more about the mission known as “the most ambitious earth observation program of all times.”

Interested in knowing more about how our brain works? So is British neurobiologist James Poulet, who tries to understand how the brain is able to recognize that a fresh cup of coffee feels both smooth and warm. Check out his research on the brain’s sensory perception.

Enjoy reading!

Contemporary Issus

March for Science

“Science is international”

This coming April 22, scientists in many locations around the world will take to the streets. Helmholtz President Otmar D. Wiestler explains why he supports the movement.

Satellite Launch

Earth Observation for Everyone

The aim of the European Copernicus Project is to deliver high-resolution images of virtually every place on earth – none of them older than five days and as a complimentary service that is accessible to everyone. The launch of the Sentinel-2B satellite means that the core of the mission has now been completed.

Sensory Perception

Two become one

Our sense of touch tells us whether an object is wet or dry, rough or smooth, hard or soft. At the same time, the brain is able to recognize that a freshly filled cup of coffee feels both smooth and warm. How does the brain process temperature and touch simultaneously?

Helmholtz-Blogs

7 scientists, 3+1 projects and countless split pins – a short tour of geophysics

Shackles, tie wraps and split pins are a geophysicist’s bread and butter. We like to think in three dimensions and for some we also grant the childhood wish of flying… but let’s be honest…

Land Geology