“Catching Magnons!”: The interactive webcomic that brings magnonics to life

04.05.2023

Science and art have come together in our FWF-funded interactive webcomic, “Catching Magnons!,” designed to bring the NanoMag’s experimental research to life. With a mobile-first approach, the comic offers an innovative and engaging way to learn about concepts and processes involved in nanomagnetism and magnonics research

The comic comprises four interconnected stories that introduce readers to core concepts of magnetism, the processes of experimental research, and the people behind the science. With an additional layer of interactive media elements such as mini-games and animations, readers are encouraged to actively participate in the storytelling experience.

One of the most exciting features of the comic is the introduction of games that seamlessly integrate with the storytelling, providing an opportunity to experience what it's like to work in a lab and helping to explain scientific concepts. From recalibrating the mirrors on an optical table to understanding why scientists use lasers, the games offer a fun and interactive way to learn about the science of magnetism.

The project, which has been developed in the frame of the FWF’s Science Communication Program, brought together members from the NanoMag and excellent creatives around the studio DerGestalt, who have worked on a new way of telling science. From the scientific guidance and experience of Andrii, Qi, and Noura to the creative talents of Pedro, Fabian, Uli, Danjel, and Bernd, the project has been a true collaborative endeavor.

“From the very beginning we focused on two main ideas: to show a wide audience how science actually works and to find the best people who could help us do that.” —explains Pedro del Real– “I believe we have been successful there”.

"Catching Magnons!” offers a fresh and exciting approach to science communication, designed to reach a broad audience and inspire a new generation of scientists. With its engaging storytelling, innovative design, and interactive media elements, the comic is sure to offer an unprecedented experience to readers everywhere.