At the annual Marine Science Day at the Bermuda Institute of Ocean Sciences (BIOS) there is a boat tour, science experiments and ocean themed arts and crafts but the highlight is almost always goop.The production of goop (a substance halfway between a liquid and a solid) is one of the wacky science experiments conducted by BIOS education officer JP Skinner.Children enjoy playing with it, throwing it and plotting how to get it down their friends’ shirts.It is one of the messy and fun activities that makes the Marine Science Day a highlight of the fall calendar.“It’s difficult to live in Bermuda without getting up close and personal with the ocean, but how much do you really know about it?,” said Mr Skinner. “Marine Science Day gives us a great opportunity to welcome the public to BIOS to learn more about the ocean and have fun at the same time.”Aside from the goop, there is a more serious side to Marine Science Day.A wide range of research and tools will be on display at BIOS for the public to explore, from investigations of the ways climate change is affecting our oceans to studies of the microscopic plants and animals that live there, and from traditional laboratory equipment to a fully-equipped ocean-going research ship.Another crowd pleaser has proven to be the mini research cruises and the puppet show that run at set times through the day.Around the station, BIOS scientists will be presenting activities related to their research that are tailored to spark the imagination of visitors of all ages.If you have a burning science question, now is your time to have it answered.Several BIOS faculty members will be in the ‘Ask a Scientist’ tent to be quizzed about coral reefs, hurricanes, ocean chemistry, the marine environment, and the life of a working scientist.“Be sure to ask about their current research, most memorable experiences, and education background,” said Mr Skinner. “You might be surprised by what you learn.”Other environmental groups will have a presence at Marine Science Day, such as Bermuda Blue Halo, Bermuda Alliance for the Sargasso Sea, the Ocean Support Foundation, and the Department of Energy and Conservation Services Environmental Valuation of Coral Reefs, among others.Marine Science Day 2012 will take place at BIOS at Ferry Reach in St George’s on September 22 from 11am to 4pm.Admission and parking are free. Hot food, snacks, drinks will be on sale throughout the day. Bring your reusable water bottle for water.A schedule of the day’s events is available online at www.bios.edu. Call 297-1880 for more information.