Unveiling the Danube’s Hidden Stories: ICPDR Joins Long Night of Research
Have you ever wondered what secrets a single drop of water from the Danube River might hold? This year again, the International Commission for the Protection of the Danube River (ICPDR) invites you to find out at the Long Night of Research on Friday, 24 April 2026, at the Vienna International Centre (VIC).
As part of this vibrant celebration of science and innovation, the ICPDR will offer a glimpse into the hidden world of the Danube through its Joint Danube Survey 5 (JDS5) "Zoom into Danube" lens. Visitors of all ages can dive into an immersive experience: Through the lens of microscopes, they’ll come face-to-face with some of the tiny, fascinating creatures that thrive in the Danube such as macrozoobenthos, and discover the bustling underwater world they inhabit. Hands-on activities will demonstrate how citizen scientists can monitor pollutants auch as pesticides in the water, while live demonstrations will reveal how cutting-edge techniques like eDNA analysis are unlocking the river’s hidden stories: from its ecological health to the mysteries lurking beneath the surface.
But the adventure doesn’t stop there. At the ICPDR station, you’ll have the chance to meet the experts behind these efforts and learn how citizen science is playing a crucial role in tracking pollution and find out about environmental changes that transcend borders.
It’s a unique opportunity to see how science and society come together to protect the Danube, one of Europe’s most vital waterways.
The ICPDR’s is just one of twenty interactive stations at the VIC, where visitors can explore everything from nuclear science to environmental protection. Whether you’re a curious child, a passionate student, or simply someone who loves to learn, the Long Night of Research promises an evening filled with wonder, discovery, and inspiration.
Don’t miss out!
- When: Friday, 24 April 2026, 17:00 – 22:30
- Where: Vienna International Centre (VIC)
- Note: Bring a valid photo ID for entry.
For more details, including the full programme, please visit the IAEA Event Page.
Join us for an unforgettable evening where science comes to life, and discover the magic hidden in every drop of Danube water!
