Photo : © CNRS/David Pell
CNRS Unexpected Escapes: Explore the world
Ditch the dull textbooks and dive headfirst into the mysteries of the universe alongside leading researchers. Whether through virtual reality or captivating guided talks, these sessions whisk you away from the depths of the ocean to the rocky terrain of Mars. Get ready to experience science in a way that truly sparks the imagination.
Cité des sciences et de l'Industrie (Paris 19th)
About
The CNRS 'Échappées inattendues' arrives at the Cité des sciences et de l’Industrie on October 3rd and 4th, 2026, for a deep dive into scientific discovery. This free event, open to visitors aged 12 and up, invites you to explore everything from Martian craters to the depths of the ocean. Through immersive conferences and expert-led tours, attendees gain direct access to CNRS researchers who share their passion for space, mathematics, and biodiversity. Whether you are interested in sensory experiences or in-depth scientific discussions, this weekend offers a unique perspective on the world of modern research in the heart of Paris.
Through immersive lectures, you will travel from Montpellier to Mars or dive into the depths of the oceans. You can also visit exhibitions with CNRS scientists and learn more about the future of space exploration, the importance of mathematics, or even the crossing of borders...
This autumn, the world is within your reach! Join us at the Cité des sciences et de l’Industrie for the Fête de la Science, in the hall.
Saturday, October 3
Immersive lectures
A sensory dive into the heart of scientific research
Enter the black box or put on a virtual reality headset, get comfortable on a cushion, and let yourself be transported by the images. A unique immersive experience, out of time and space, with only the voice of the scientist serving as your guide through these inaccessible research spaces.
- On the trail of otters: a scientific investigation along the Lez: from 11:00 AM to 11:45 AM and from 1:30 PM to 2:15 PM
- We drove on Mars: from 12:30 PM to 1:15 PM, from 2:30 PM to 3:15 PM, from 4:30 PM to 5:15 PM
- Journey into the deep ocean: from 3:30 PM to 4:15 PM
Off-Escapes, exhibition tours
Discover science and the Cité's exhibitions in a different way
For a tour, CNRS scientists become your guide through the exhibitions of the Cité des sciences et de l'industrie. Astronomy, mathematics, acoustics, and geography are on the menu of these "Off" Escapes.
- Where does life come from? Journey through the solar system. Visit the Mission Spatiale exhibition from 12:30 PM to 1:15 PM, from 2:30 PM to 3:15 PM, from 4:30 PM to 5:15 PM
- Some flavors of Mathematics, visit the exhibition from 11:00 AM to 11:45 AM, from 1:30 PM to 2:15 PM, from 3:30 PM to 4:15 PM
- The border? Much more than a line, a whole journey! Visit the road exhibition from 11:00 AM to 11:45 AM, from 12:30 PM to 1:15 PM, from 2:30 PM to 3:15 PM
Sunday, October 4
Immersive lectures
- On the trail of otters: a scientific investigation along the Lez: from 11:00 AM to 11:45 AM
- Journey into the deep ocean: from 12:30 PM to 1:15 PM, from 2:30 PM to 3:15 PM
- Invasive species: a growing threat to biodiversity: from 1:30 PM to 2:15 PM, from 3:30 PM to 4:15 PM, from 4:30 PM to 5:15 PM
Off-Escapes, exhibition tours
- Some flavors of Mathematics, visit the exhibition from 11:00 AM to 11:45 AM, from 1:30 PM to 2:15 PM, from 3:30 PM to 4:15 PM
- To the sound of instruments, visit the "Les Sons" exhibition: from 12:30 PM to 1:15 PM, from 2:30 PM to 3:15 PM, from 4:30 PM to 5:15 PM
Follow and share the event #Échappéesinattendues
This event is organized in partnership with Science & vie.
Our take on this event
On Saturday, October 3rd, and Sunday, October 4th, 2026, between 11:00 and 18:00, the Cité des sciences et de l’Industrie hosts a series of scientific encounters. As part of the Fête de la Science, the CNRS presents an program designed for attendees aged 12 and over, focusing on immersive learning and direct dialogue with experts.
The immersive conferences provide a sensory journey where participants follow the voice of a scientist and high-quality imagery to study topics like the environment, space exploration, and oceanography. On Saturday, themes include Mars exploration and otter research, while Sunday sessions feature discussions on invasive species and the deep seas.
Additionally, the 'Off Échappées' program transforms museum visits into guided learning experiences. Researchers from the CNRS accompany guests through the institution’s exhibitions, offering insights into mathematics, acoustics, and space missions. These guided tours allow for an interactive exploration of the displays, providing context and expertise that go beyond standard signage. The entire event is free to attend, welcoming anyone interested in expanding their knowledge of scientific inquiry through direct interaction with researchers.
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