John Dalton Bicentenary Celebrations

Manchester, 13 & 14 October 2003

John Dalton's Atomic Theory was published in 1803 and it was the basis for all subsequent chemical investigations and marked the end for Alchemy. On 13 & 14 October, 2003 the RSC organized (in conjunction with the Manchester Literary & Philosophical Society) several events that were held in Manchester to commemorate the Bicentennial of the publication of John Dalton's Atomic Theory.

Monday, 13 October

Bucky Ball Workshop at Manchester United's Training Academy, Carrington

A workshop for Manchester & district primary schools led by Sir Harry Kroto, Nobel Laureate and current President of the Royal Society of Chemistry and supported by staff at Manchester United. The workshop was followed by some football coaching led by the Manchester United Football in the Community staff. 

Sir Harry was awarded the Nobel Prize for the discovery of C₆₀, a new form of carbon which has a structure similar to the modern football - the basis of the workshop. C₆₀ is often referred to as a "Bucky Ball" after the geodesic domes created by the architect Buckminster Fuller. 

Tuesday, 14 October

Unveiling of John Dalton Plaque in Manchester Peace Gardens 
By Professor Sir Harry Kroto and the Lord Mayor of Manchester 

Other Chemical Heritage plaques to commemorate the achievements of John Dalton and several other notable Manchester scientists will be unveiled during week beginning 20 October and during Chemistry Week (7-16 Nov 2003). 

Lecture for Researchers - Nanoscience and Nanotechnology; New Chemistry
Professor Sir Harry Kroto presented the lecture in the Roscoe Building, University of Manchester. Nanoscience is attracting much current interest and expressions of concern; the Government has requested The Royal Society to evaluate the opportunities and risks associated with this new technology.

32nd Dalton Lecture - 2010, A Nanospace Odyssey
The Dalton Lecture was presented by Professor Sir Harry Kroto in Manchester Town Hall. Jointly organised by the Royal Society of Chemistry and The Manchester Literary and Philosophical Society. This was open to schools and the general public and was part of the series of lectures taking place in Manchester between 14-23 October 2005.