Between Science and Science Fiction
Science fiction produces a vision which fuels scientists in developing the next generation scientific theories and technologies. The authors Mary Shelley ("Frankenstein"), Isaac Asimov ("I, Robot") and Philip K. Dick ("Blade Runner") had all foreseen the ability of man to create a being in his own image, whether from body parts, metal or using genetic engineering. The TV show Star Trek predicted technological devices such as diskettes, palm held computers, mobile phones and automatic doors.
At the same time, science fiction feeds off science itself, utilizing the most revolutionary ideas of scientific research and performing a leap forward towards the world of imagination: traveling faster than the speed of light, instant transport from place to place, universal translators and interstellar gates are just several simple examples.
In an annual series of events intended for the public at large, as well as fans of the genre, Icon reveals to its audience revolutionary fields of research currently occupying science and exposes the connections between science fiction and today's and tomorrow's technology.