The Orlando Science Center’s public relations efforts generate awareness for its exhibits, films, programs and events through media coverage as well as enhance its image as a community resource.
Through careful planning and good relationships with local newspapers, TV networks, websites and radio stations, the Orlando Science Center enjoys consistent coverage.
The Orlando Science Center also functions as a reliable resource for area reporters in need of quick story ideas or colorful backgrounds for live reports. Area media often interview guests and staff on issues involving science, technology and current events.
29 April 2013
Posted in
Press and Media
Do-It-Yourself TV Project Takes Home Ying Prize
Brevard County’s Sarah Van Sickle Wins Orlando Science Center Competition For Fractal Antenna That Receives TV Signals Anywhere
ORLANDO, Fla. (April 29, 2013)—Sarah Van Sickle, a senior from Brevard County’s Satellite High School, took home the top prize in the Dr. Nelson Ying Science Competition, an annual event hosted by the Orlando Science Center. Van Sickle won a trophy, a $5,000 cash scholarship plus $1,000 awards for her science teacher and her school. In addition, Seminole County’s Nirva Vassa and Polk County’s Divya Ravinder were given $1,000 fellowships.
Since 1999, philanthropist, scientist and entrepreneur Dr. Nelson Ying has worked with Orlando Science Center to encourage the outstanding scientific accomplishments of our community’s teens. Projects submitted are required to have the ultimate goal of benefiting humanity. Van Sickle’s winning research was the continuation of a multi-year effort that created an antenna the average person could build to receive free TV signals. Last year, she won second prize in this competition for an earlier phase of this research.
Her efforts improved on the design of the antenna, which is based on fractal geometry and receives both UHF and VHF frequencies for less money than the cost of a commercial device. Since broadcast television is an important communications tool, this research could enable everyone to have access to multiple over-the-air transmissions at a fraction of the cost. This research would be especially valuable for those living in remote areas, Third World countries or people in post-disaster areas where cable or satellite transmissions are inaccessible.
