Take Off - Science Challenge Show to Launch on Sunday

The first episode of the Take Off - Science Challenge Show, the first show of its kind in Luxembourg, is set to launch on Sunday 14 January 2024.

Supported by the André Losch Foundation and the Luxembourg National Research Fund (FNR), this thirteen-episode multimedia programme, broadcast both on the web and on television, aims to stimulate young people's interest in science in Luxembourg.

Twelve young talents between the ages of fifteen and 21 will compete to solve science challenges, initially as a team and then individually. The winner takes home €10,000.

"Take Off" is aimed at both entertaining audiences and sparking young people's interest in scientific fields by showing them that science is an integral part of daily life. The show will highlight the talents and resources of young people on the national scene while illustrating Luxembourg's diversity.

"The 'Take Off' project, with its multilingual crossmedia approach, is a perfect example of innovation in scientific communication. Through the TV show, social networks and educational resources, it is not just an entertainment show, but an educational and interactive platform," explained Dr Andreea Monnat, Acting CEO of the FNR. "The FNR, with its experience in scientific communication, engages in such projects to promote scientific culture, in line with our fundamental mission of enriching society through knowledge and research."

Daniela Ragni, Director of the André Losch Foundation, added: "This project contributes to strengthening the image of young people within society. Take Off allows them to showcase their talents and offers them a space to inspire and motivate others."

Beyond the show, "Take Off" plans to create educational content for teachers, explanatory videos for students and educational kits developed in collaboration with SCRIPT.

In addition, the project will support young participants in managing their communication on social networks and their public exposure.

The concept for the show is inspired by Rakett69, an Estonian science show which was awarded the prize for best European educational show.

"Take Off" also receives support from Luxembourg's Ministry of Research and Higher Education and the Ministry of Education, Children and Youth.

The first episode will launch on Sunday at 19:00 on television (RTL), the YouTube channel "Take Off - Science Challenge Show” and the takeoffshow.lu website.