FANCY piloting a superjet in a flight simulator, experimenting with lasers or sailing in a yacht wind tunnel?

Those are just some of the children’s activities on offer at Southampton University’s science and engineering free family fun day on March 7.

The event, featuring interactive exhibitions, displays and demonstrations, will be held at the university’s Highfield campus from 10.30am until 4pm.

Children will also be able to watch the launch of a rocket-powered model of the Bloodhound supersonic car and make slime, silly putty and bubbles that bounce in mid-air.

The day is being held to mark the start of science and engineering week.

Organiser Professor Jeremy Kilburn said: “I really hope these events spark enthusiasm and prove influential in persuading many of the children to choose science or engineering as a career.”

The university is also holding a FREE Ocean and Earth Day at its National Oceanography Centre, (through Dock Gate 4) on March 14, from 10.30am until 4pm.

Visitors can explore the research vessel Callista, take part in aquarium visits and get involved in hands-on activities to find out more about deep-sea life.