"LIGHT’09 is a “cultural transformation event” bridging the gap between contemporary researchers and people who will ultimately benefit from their work. LIGHT’09 conducts visitors on a journey into today’s science and technology, giving them reasons to get excited about the future and changing the image they have of scientists and science. The main objective of LIGHT’09 thus consists of changing the image of scientists and science through bringing researchers and public at large closer to one another.Moreover, LIGHT’09 is a fun yet informative festival throwing the spotlight on science and the “human face” of scientists. It also encourages younger people to get into science, engineering and technology and turn it into a “cool” career.While last year the focus was on the five senses, LIGHT’09 relies on the four elements, namely: air, water, fire and earth.The main location will be the Rome Planetarium. LIGHT’09 intends to sensitise the participants to the existence of gender stereotypes reducing the access and permanence of women to scientific careers. This sensitisation will be illustrated through the establishment of two different and separated entrances for men and women. As a consequence of this specific objective, gender balance will be considered in selecting the researchers who will be protagonists of the RN.The event will last from 3 pm on 25th September to 2 am of the following day. The LIGHT’09 project will last seven months.A purposely designed communication strategy will support LIGHT’09 so to ensure its success."