45,000 visitors are expected at the BT Young Scientist exhibition which opens to the public tomorrow.
The competition is now in its 49th year.
It saw a record number of entries up 24% on figures from last year.
550 finalists have their projects on display at the RDS in Dublin where judging began today.
More than just science
In addition to the competition shows include The World of Robots - which brings together the best 100 kilo combat robots.
Dr. Who’s Dalek, Star Wars R2D2, Thor and World Champion Storm II are just some of the robots that will fight it out with spinning discs, razor sharp teeth, brute strength and no mercy, all inside a bullet proof cage.
All shows have scheduled times each day the exhibition is open to the public including Thursday 10th - Saturday 12th January.
For more information on the exhibition visit www.btyoungscientist.com
Jervis Goode is a judge and a former winner of the competition.
He explains how it has evolved since he won in 1979.
Image: BT Young Scientist and Technology Exhibition
