FYI,

This may be of interest to public libraries and schools to share with their English and Science Departments: A unique writing contest that combines steampunk and quantum tech - deadline Jan. 15, 2023.

From the Quantum Frontiers blog announcement:
"Steampunk stories combine Victorian settings and sensibilities with futuristic technologies, such as dirigibles and automata. Quantum technologies are cutting-edge and futuristic, whereas thermodynamics-the study of energy-developed during the 1800s. Inspired by the first steam engines, thermodynamics needs retooling for quantum settings. That retooling is quantum thermodynamics-or, if you're feeling whimsical (as every physicist should), quantum steampunk.

The contest opens this October and closes on January 15, 2023. Everyone aged 13 or over may enter a story, written in English, of up to 3,000 words. Minimal knowledge of quantum theory is required; if you've heard of Schrödinger's cat, superpositions, or quantum uncertainty, you can pull out your typewriter and start punching away. 

Entries must satisfy two requirements:
1. Stories must be written in a steampunk style, including by taking place at least partially during the 1800s. Transport us to Meiji Japan; La Belle Époque in Paris; gritty, smoky Manchester; or a camp of immigrants unfurling a railroad across the American west. Feel free to set your story partially in the future; time machines are welcome.

2. Each entry must feature at least one quantum technology, real or imagined. Real and under-construction quantum technologies include quantum computers, communication networks, cryptographic systems, sensors, thermometers, and clocks. Experimentalists have realized quantum engines, batteries, refrigerators, and teleportation, too. Surprise us with your imagined quantum technologies (and inspire our next research-grant proposals)."
Deadline: Jan. 15, 2023

 Prizes: $4,500 total, including a $1,500 grand prize

Further Details: qtd-hub.umd.edu/contest 
Sponsor: The Maryland Quantum-Thermodynamics Hub

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Debbie Abilock
Co-founder; Consultant
NoodleTools Inc.;
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Forwarded by:

Sharon Rawlins, MLS (she/her/hers)

Youth Services Specialist

Library Development Bureau

New Jersey State Library

P. 609-278-2640 x116

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W. www.njstatelib.org

185 West State Street

P.O. Box 520, Trenton, NJ  08625