The Wonders of Physics Video Contest is a competition run by the Wonders of Physics traveling outreach program at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Participants record a short video demonstrating and explaining a physics concept.
Historical 2026 video requirements:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Length | 1–3 minutes |
| Language | English, or include English subtitles |
| Units | Metric system only where applicable |
| Originality | All content (video, music, images) must be original work |
| Safety | Proper safety precautions must be followed |
Historical 2026 age and eligibility:
You must be 18 or older to enter on your own; younger participants must submit with adult supervision.
Historical 2026 prizes:
| Award | Prize |
|---|---|
| Best video from someone under 18 | Listed as a category; no prize specified on the contest page |
| Best video using metric system | $200 from the US Metric Association |
| Category winners | Plaques for the best videos; categories may be added |
| Teacher (many quality student entries) | $200 PASCO gift certificate; 1-year Vernier Video Analysis license (two awards) |
About the Wonders of Physics:
The Wonders of Physics is a traveling outreach program based in the Department of Physics at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. It has engaged the public with physics demonstrations since 1984.
Source check, November 4, 2026: The official contest page explicitly marks the 2026 contest closed and gives June 12, 2026 at 11:59 PM CDT as its deadline. No future submission window or new-cycle rules were announced in the checked page. An explicit entry-fee statement was not found; the earlier catalog zero-fee claim is unconfirmed. The requirements and awards above describe the published 2026 contest.