A giant E. coli bacterium attracted attention in the city centre

The Days of Electron Microscopy Brno are fast approaching. Already today, people at náměstí Svobody could observe a giant 6-meter inflatable model of the E. coli bacterium. The Brno Observatory and Planetarium launched its public campaign by presenting the symbol of this year’s event.

Starting March 23, a full week of lectures, exhibitions, workshops, excursions, and open days at partner institutions will take place, giving visitors insight into the fascinating microworld.

This bacterium was among the first biological samples ever observed under an electron microscope. It can be both a biological friend and foe. The human body can contain up to an astonishing 2 grams of it—roughly the weight of half a sugar cube.

And if the weather cooperates on March 23, visitors in Brno’s city center can look forward to seeing all the inflatable models from the past four editions of the Days of Electron Microscopy.