Some people are tough to buy for -- this may apply doubly for science lovers. That’s why Perimeter is proud to present its annual gift guide. From exclusive Perimeter merch and clothing to new books and fun gadgets, here are some of our favourite gifts for this holiday season.
Must-read books
1. The Battle of the Big Bang by Niayesh Afshordi and Phil Halper
“Where did we come from” is one of the most basic questions humans ask. In The Battle of the Big Bang, Perimeter faculty member Niayesh Afshordi and writer Phil Halper tell the untold story of our universe’s origins. The book covers not just the major theories dominating cosmology today but also lays bare the many, many fights scientists have had along the way. It’s a great book for anyone who loves thinking about big questions and wants a behind-the-scenes look at the very human scientists doing the research.
2. 111 Places in Space that You Must Not Miss by Mark McCaughrean
From gigantic Martian volcanoes to immense supernovae, the universe is full of incredible sights and experiences. Author Mark McCaughrean, former Senior Advisor at the European Space Agency, guides readers through some of the universe’s can’t-miss destinations. Full of pictures from the most powerful telescopes ever built, this book is perfect for anyone who dreams of a cross-universe sightseeing adventure.
3. Nanocosmos: Journeys in Electron Space by Michael Benson
As telescopes give us beautiful pictures of the cosmos, so too have electron microscopes been capturing images of what happens at the smallest scales. Nanocosmos is a coffee table book by author and filmmaker Michael Benson, who spent years constructing images from electron microscope scans at the Canadian Museum of Nature in Quebec. It’s a journey into the atomic unknown.
Books for young scientists
1. The Planet is a Poem by Amanda West Lewis and Oliver Averill
Poetry and science combine in this delightful tour of our solar system. Writer Amanda West Lewis has composed 14 poems about the solar system’s most famous objects. Filled with fun facts and accompanied by beautiful illustrations, it’s the perfect introduction for any young scientist who wants to learn about our stellar neighbours. For kids aged 8-12.
2. Undaunted Ursula Franklin by Monica Franklin and Erin Della Mattia
Ursula Franklin was a Canadian physicist, activist, and educator who taught at the University of Toronto for over 40 years. A holocaust survivor who broke down barriers for women in science, Franklin’s life and work are an incredible story, one now told by her daughter. The book is written for kids aged 9-12 who want to learn about one of Canada’s pioneering scientists.
3. Calculating Chimpanzees, Brainy Bees, and Other Animals with Mind-Blowing Mathematical Abilities by Stephanie Gibeault and Jaclyn Sinquett
You might not be surprised to learn that chimpanzees can count, but what about the mathematical abilities of other animals? Author Stephanie Gibeault introduces five different animals and investigates how they understand math. She finishes each chapter with an interview with a researcher and a hands-on activity. Recommended for ages 9-12.
Gadgets and games
1. Elements of Truth by Veritasium
Perimeter friend and YouTube science educator Veritasium has launched a Kickstarter for his trivia board game Elements of Truth. The trivia game features hundreds of questions vetted by the Veritasium team and players score points based on how confident they are in their answers. The base game features 200 questions, while additional question packs will be available on different topics. We’re excited to try the physics and astronomy packs! Kickstarter ends on Dec. 12.
2. Coffee Cup Stirling Engine or Crookes Radiometer
Physicists love seeing their favourite scientific discipline in action, which is why so many of them love little devices like Stirling engines and Crookes radiometers. Each uses an unconventional source of energy to create movement, giving us desktop curiosities that any physics fan will love.
Stirling engines operate by converting a difference in temperature into motion. We personally love coffee cup versions like this one, which sit neatly on top of hot beverages and use the heat and steam to whirl around.
Crookes radiometers transform sunlight into rotational movement. The result is a mini windmill that spins faster according to the intensity of light. Many Crookes radiometers are available in all shapes and sizes.
3. The Ultimate Solid of Constant Width
Spheres keep a consistent width when rolled, but did you know there’s another shape that can do this? It’s called a “spheroform,” and you can get elegant versions in steel, brass, or copper. They are a desktop delight that geometry enthusiasts will love.
The Stellar Matter Shop
Show off your support for Perimeter with branded clothing, collectibles, souvenirs and more, all available at the brand-new Stellar Matter Shop. Here are a few items our researchers love.
If you visited Perimeter anytime this past year, you may have seen someone sporting this hoodie. Made exclusively to celebrate our 25th anniversary, this cosmic hoodie is now available to everyone. Featuring an out-of-this-world design on the back, it’s the perfect way to declare to the world that you are an Explorer.
2. Perimeter Institute Building Block Set
Recreate Perimeter’s iconic Waterloo building with our new building block set. This detailed, 672-piece replica captures the award-winning design of Perimeter’s building. Recommended for builders 12+.
Our comfortable socks feature equations that have reshaped our understanding of the universe. Wear them around town or around the house to show off your deep appreciation for math and physics.
4. We are Explorers Ceramic Tumbler
Sip in style and celebrate the wonders of physics with this ceramic-coated tumbler. Adorned with iconic equations, it combines quality design with science-inspired flair. And it keeps drinks the perfect temperature for up to ten hours.
About PI
Perimeter Institute is the world’s largest research hub devoted to theoretical physics. The independent Institute was founded in 1999 to foster breakthroughs in the fundamental understanding of our universe, from the smallest particles to the entire cosmos. Research at Perimeter is motivated by the understanding that fundamental science advances human knowledge and catalyzes innovation, and that today’s theoretical physics is tomorrow’s technology. Located in the Region of Waterloo, the not-for-profit Institute is a unique public-private endeavour, including the Governments of Ontario and Canada, that enables cutting-edge research, trains the next generation of scientific pioneers, and shares the power of physics through award-winning educational outreach and public engagement.
